Apple's retail shelves for the iPhone 16e and iPad Air models are nearly empty, according to reports. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, citing Apple's retail contacts, states the iPhone 16e inventory has 'basically dried out,' with the iPad Air also experiencing shortages. This depletion occurs as Apple prepares to launch new versions of both devices imminently.

Gurman's sources indicate the upcoming iPhone 17e will feature the A19 chip, MagSafe connectivity, the new cellular C1X modem chip, and Apple's N1 chip for enhanced wireless performance, retaining the $599 starting price. Simultaneously, Apple plans to introduce a budget iPad 12 with the A18 chip and an updated iPad Air 8 featuring the M4 chip, both without major design changes. The shortages signal strong demand for the current models before the new releases.

Apple is expected to unveil these new products soon, with details available on MacRumors.