If you are planning to buy a new iPhone soon, you have picked a very interesting time. The world of Apple leaks is moving fast right now. We have one affordable iPhone launching almost immediately, and some wild rumors about a “Foldable iPhone” coming later this year.
Whether you want a budget-friendly option or are waiting for the next big thing, here is everything you need to know about the latest iPhone rumors for India.
iPhone 17e: The Budget King is Coming Next Week?
The biggest news right now is not about a flagship, but a budget phone. Rumors strongly suggest Apple is about to launch the iPhone 17e (some call it the successor to the SE series).
According to recent leaks, this phone could launch as early as February 19, 2026.
Note: The information mentioned above is based on leaks and rumors. Apple has not officially confirmed these details yet.
Expected Features of iPhone 17e
This phone is designed for people who want the Apple experience without paying ₹1 Lakh.
- Design: It will likely look modern, ditching the old Home Button for a full-screen look (similar to the iPhone 16/17 design).
- Display: A 6.1-inch OLED screen. Finally, even the budget iPhone gets a great display, though it might stick to 60Hz (standard refresh rate) to keep costs down.
- Performance: It is rumored to run on the A19 chip (or a slightly toned-down version). This means it will be extremely fast, handling gaming and heavy apps easily.
- Camera: Expect a single powerful 48MP rear camera. While it won’t have zoom lenses, the main photo quality should be flagship-level.
- MagSafe: Yes, faster wireless charging is expected.
Expected Price in India: Analysts predict the global price will be around $599. In India, after taxes, the iPhone 17e price could be around ₹59,990 to ₹64,990. This makes it a direct competitor to premium Android phones from OnePlus and Samsung.
iPhone 18 Rumors: What to Expect in Late 2026?
While the 17e is for budget buyers, tech lovers are already looking at September 2026 for the iPhone 18 lineup.
The iPhone 17 Air (launched last year) focused on being slim. The iPhone 18 is rumored to focus on hidden technology.
- Under-Display Face ID: The biggest rumor is that the “Dynamic Island” pill-shape might get smaller or disappear entirely on the Pro models. Apple is testing technology to hide the Face ID sensors under the screen.
- Variable Aperture Camera: The iPhone 18 Pro cameras might physically change their lens opening (aperture). This would allow for natural background blur (bokeh) in photos without relying entirely on software mode.
- A20 Chip: Apple is working on 2nm chip technology, which would make the iPhone 18 vastly more power-efficient than any phone today.
The “iPhone Fold”: Is 2026 Finally the Year?
For years, we have heard rumors about a foldable iPhone. Now, multiple sources say late 2026 might actually be the release window.
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Unlike the Samsung Z Flip (which is a small clamshell), rumors say Apple is building a “Book-Style” foldable.
- Screen Size: It could open up into a 7.8-inch tablet, similar to an iPad Mini.
- Durability: Apple is reportedly using a special “self-healing” material or a complex hinge mechanism to ensure there is no visible crease in the middle of the screen.
- Price Shock: Be prepared. If this launches, it will be an ultra-premium device. Estimates suggest a price tag over $2,000, which could mean ₹2,00,000+ in India.
Should You Wait or Buy Now?
This is the main question for Indian buyers.
If you have a budget of under ₹70,000, you should definitely wait for the iPhone 17e. It is launching very soon and will offer the best value for money for the next 2-3 years.
If you want the absolute best camera and display, the current iPhone 17 Pro (released late 2025) is still a beast. The iPhone 18 is still many months away, so waiting might not be worth it unless you specifically want the new camera tech.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the next iPhone launching in India?
The iPhone 17e is rumored to launch globally and in India around February 19, 2026. This will be a mid-cycle release. The next major flagship series, the iPhone 18, will likely arrive in September 2026.
Will the iPhone 17e support 5G in India?
Yes, absolutely. The iPhone 17e will support all major Indian 5G bands (Jio and Airtel). It is also rumored to use Apple’s own new Wi-Fi chips for better connectivity.
Is there an iPhone Flip coming?
Most rumors currently point to a “Fold” style (book opening) rather than a “Flip” style (clamshell) for Apple’s first foldable device. However, Apple often tests multiple designs, so this could change before the official announcement in late 2026.
