The tech world never sleeps, and neither does the Apple rumor mill! From whispers of a budget-friendly iPhone 17e in 2026 to beta updates for AirPods and speculation about RAM upgrades for the iPhone 17 Pro, there's plenty to keep Apple enthusiasts buzzing.
iPhone 17e: A Budget-Friendly Future?
Just as the iPhone 16e is hitting store shelves, rumors are already circulating about a potential iPhone 17e in 2026. This comes after the iPhone 16e replaced the iPhone SE, which saw only three updates in nine years. The suggestion of an annual update cycle was sparked by a tweet from Tim Cook welcoming the iPhone 16e to the family.
Two separate sources have now fueled the speculation, suggesting a February 2026 release for the iPhone 17e. However, details remain scarce, and only one source seems to have solid grounds for the claim. Could Apple be aiming for a more frequent update cycle for its budget-friendly iPhone line?
AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 Get Beta Love
Apple continues to refine its audio offerings with a new developer beta firmware update for the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4. The update, which increases the build number to 7E5080a from the previous 7E5067b released in January 2025, is available for both USB-C and Lightning models.
This beta release is specifically targeted at developers, allowing them to test new features before they roll out to the general public. The update is not available for AirPods Max or other non-H2 devices. While details of the update are currently unknown, it highlights Apple's commitment to constantly improving its AirPods lineup. As one developer noted, "These betas are crucial for ensuring compatibility and stability before a wide release."
iPhone 17 Pro: More RAM for Enhanced AI?
The iPhone 17 Pro is already generating buzz, with rumors swirling about a potential RAM upgrade. Analyst Jeff Pu has reiterated his expectation that both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature 12GB of RAM. This upgrade, according to Pu, would enable more powerful AI features exclusive to these devices.
However, not all sources agree. While the iPhone 17 Slim is rumored to get 8GB of RAM, more reliable sources are disputing the 12GB claim for the Pro models. The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to launch in September 2025, so we'll have to wait and see what Apple ultimately decides.
Whether it's a budget-friendly iPhone 17e, improved AirPods performance, or enhanced AI capabilities in the iPhone 17 Pro, the Apple rumor mill is churning out plenty of exciting possibilities for the future.
