Apple’s next affordable iPhone may not look much different from its predecessor, with a new leak suggesting the iPhone 18e will stick to a familiar design rather than introduce any major upgrades.

According to Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital, Apple is expected to carry over much of the iPhone 17e‘s design, with only minor changes planned for the upcoming model. The device will reportedly share some manufacturing processes with the standard iPhone 18, although that doesn’t necessarily mean it will receive the same features.

One feature that looks unlikely to make the cut is Dynamic Island. Despite earlier rumours suggesting Apple could replace the traditional notch on its budget-friendly iPhone, the leaker believes the company will retain the existing design for another generation. That would leave the iPhone 18e looking noticeably different from Apple’s more expensive models, which have already moved away from the notch.

The latest claim also lines up with a separate leak from October 27, which suggested the iPhone 18e would retain the same 6.12-inch LTPS OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate. While that should still offer a familiar viewing experience, it would mean buyers hoping for a smoother display or a more modern front design may have to wait a little longer.

There could still be some improvements underneath, however. The earlier report pointed to Apple’s upcoming A20 processor, alongside a 48-megapixel rear camera and a 24-megapixel front-facing camera. If accurate, the newer chip and upgraded selfie camera could be among the more meaningful changes, even if the overall design remains largely untouched.

It’s worth noting that Fixed Focus Digital has a mixed track record when it comes to Apple leaks, so these details should be treated with some caution. Apple has yet to confirm anything about the iPhone 18e, including its specifications or launch plans.