Apple plans multiple hardware launches in 2026, the year of its 50th anniversary. Journalist Mark Gurman, in a recent newsletter, detailed updates for iPhones, iPads, Macs and smart home devices. The news begins at the beginning of the year and continues until the end.
The company updates existing lines with new chips. Includes iPhone 16e, entry-level iPad with A18 and iPad Air with M4. MacBook Air gets M5, while Pro gets M5 Pro and M5 Max.
- New monitors accompany the machines.
- Smart home displays arrive in March or April.
- Versions include stand with speaker and wall model.
Start of the year with a focus on portables
Updates reach mobile devices and computers in the first quarter. iPhone 16e represents evolution of the SE line. Entry-level iPad incorporates A18 chip for improved performance.
iPad Air adopts M4, equaling power to recent Pro models. MacBook Air with M5 improves energy efficiency. Early MacBook Pros use M5 Pro and M5 Max for professional tasks.
Smart Home Devices
Apple enters the home automation segment in March or April. Dedicated displays include an option with an integrated speaker. Another wall-mounted version for centralized control.
These products prepare the ground for security cameras at the end of the year. Integrate existing HomeKit ecosystem. Expand options beyond HomePod.
Mid-Year and September Event
iPad mini gets refresh in mid-2026. Traditional September event presents standard line of iPhones. Apple Watches keep up with new generations.
Foldable smartphone debuts to compete with rivals. Suppliers produce smart glasses in small quantities. Preview possible on the same stage.
Desktop and portable holiday updates
MacBooks Pro receive major redesign since 2021. Touch-sensitive OLED screens highlight the line. M6 chip equips these models.
Mac mini updates with M5 variants. Mac Studio follows the same pattern. Apple TV and HomePod mini could arrive in late 2025 or early 2026 due to low stocks.
Projected timeline
Launches distributed throughout the year. Home focuses on laptops and monitors. March and April mark the entry into the smart home.
Mid-year updates compact tablet. September reveals foldable and wearables. Fim prioritizes professionals with OLED touch.
M5 chips vary in Pro, Max and standard. M4 goes to iPad Air. A18 equips accessible input.
OLED touch screens transform MacBooks Pro. Foldable expands mobile portfolio. Smart glasses advance in initial production.
Apple diversifies portfolio in 2026. Combines annual updates with entry into new markets. Maintains pace of innovation in its own chips.
