Apple’s rumoured iPhone 18e could bring a new processor and an upgraded front camera, according to recent leaks. However, the company’s expected budget-friendly smartphone may retain a 60Hz display and a single rear camera, suggesting that the overall hardware changes could be limited compared with the iPhone 17e.
Tipster Digital Chat Station has reportedly shared details about the upcoming handset on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. The iPhone 18e is expected to launch in spring 2027, although Apple has not officially confirmed the device or its specifications.
iPhone 18e May Get Apple’s A20 Chipset
According to the leak, the iPhone 18e could use Apple’s A20 chipset, which is reportedly based on a 2nm manufacturing process. If confirmed, this would mark a processor upgrade over the A19 chip found in the iPhone 17e.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had also previously indicated that the upcoming model could feature the A20 chipset. The earlier report additionally suggested a possible 9GB RAM configuration, although this detail remains unconfirmed.
The smartphone is tipped to feature a 6.12-inch LTPS OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. If the information proves accurate, Apple may continue to reserve higher refresh rates for other models in its iPhone lineup.
A 60Hz screen refreshes up to 60 times per second, while a 120Hz display can provide smoother scrolling, animations and visual transitions.
iPhone 18e Camera Upgrades: What the Leak Suggests
The iPhone 18e is expected to retain a single 48MP rear camera, matching the main camera resolution of its predecessor, the iPhone 17e.
The more noticeable camera change could come at the front. According to Digital Chat Station, Apple may equip the new model with a 24MP selfie camera, compared with the 12MP front camera on the iPhone 17e.
However, the leak does not reveal further details about the front camera sensor, additional photography features or the phone’s battery capacity. These specifications will need to be confirmed by Apple.
iPhone 18e Expected Launch Date
Apple introduced the iPhone 17e in March 2026, and the iPhone 18e could follow a similar release schedule in spring 2027.
For now, the launch date, pricing and complete specifications remain unknown. The reported A20 chipset, possible 9GB RAM configuration and upgraded selfie camera should be treated as unconfirmed details until Apple makes an official announcement.
Disclaimer: This article is based on leaks and reports available in the source material. The iPhone 18e’s specifications, features and launch timeline have not been officially confirmed by Apple and may change before launch.