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Image: Michael Sherman
Apple is entering 2026 with a remarkably broad slate of new hardware and software offers that could redefine its product ecosystem, from budget-friendly iPhones to creative software suites aimed squarely at professionals and creators.
The company has quietly signalled its most expansive roadmap in years, with multiple launches expected across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and services, following a relatively subdued 2025 calendar that nevertheless laid important groundwork with innovations like iOS 26 and Apple Intelligence enhancements.
Rumours from supply-chain analysts suggest Apple will expand its iPhone family with entry-level and experimental models in early 2026, and these include:
iPhone 17e: Positioned as the next “default” iPhone, combining a lower price point with reliable performance. Analysts expect this to arrive in spring 2026.
Foldable iPhone (iPhone Fold) — Early whispers from industry watchers point to a potential foldable iPhone model late in 2026, part of Apple’s push into more experimental designs.
This strategy mirrors Apple’s broader effort to attract a wider consumer base with tiered devices, similar to how the iPhone Air expanded the iPhone lineup in late 2025, offering flagship-level capabilities in a lighter, thinner design.
According to MacRumours, Macs and iPads are set for major updates that balance performance gains with affordability.
This is what may be coming out this year:
New MacBooks with Apple Silicon: A refreshed MacBook with an A-series chip, traditionally seen in iPhones is expected to debut early in 2026, targeting consumers and education sectors with lower prices than typical Apple laptops.
M5-Powered Machines: High-performance MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and possibly new desktops are predicted to follow in staged launches through the year.
M5 iPad Pro & Renewed iPad Line: Rumoured upgrades promise Apple Intelligence support and enhanced cameras, aligning tablets closer to professional workflows.
Bloomberg reporting has also flagged the potential arrival before March 2026 of a base 14-inch MacBook Pro with the new M5 chip.
Beyond core computing gear, Apple appears poised to reinvigorate its smart home hardware portfolio:
Apple TV 4K Refresh: Upgraded with new chips and possible support for Apple Intelligence enhancements — bringing smarter TV experiences.
HomePod mini and AirTag Updates: Expected to include S-series or next-gen chips and expanded feature sets that tie into Apple’s ecosystem more tightly, according to WebProNews.
Rumoured Hub Device: Some leaks and community discussion on Reddit suggest a new HomePod-like hub with a larger display to compete in the smart home segment.
Apple’s strategy extends well beyond hardware refreshes, with the company placing increased emphasis on software and services as key growth drivers.
In early January, Apple announced Apple Creator Studio, an all-in-one subscription bundle that brings together professional tools such as Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro, a move widely seen as positioning the company more directly against Adobe’s Creative Cloud at a more accessible price point.
At the same time, Apple is continuing to roll out enhanced Apple Intelligence features, embedding deeper AI and machine-learning capabilities into everyday functions such as live translation, visual search, and on-device assistance.
These updates are being supported by major operating system upgrades, including macOS Tahoe and iOS 26, which introduce refreshed designs and improved usability, further strengthening integration and consistency across Apple’s ecosystem.
While Apple’s Vision Pro mixed-reality headset remains available in many markets, future iterations appear to be in flux.
Some reports on Reddit suggest Apple may pivot away from a direct Vision Pro overhaul to focus on lightweight smart glasses that leverage iPhone connectivity.
Moreover, broader speculation hints at glass-style wearables beyond traditional headsets, reflecting Apple’s long-term vision for augmented experiences.
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