Apple's ambitious pipeline with a flurry of new devices expected through early 2026

Apple is reportedly gearing up for a busy period of product launches spanning late 2025 and extending into early 2026, with a comprehensive refresh across its core product lines and the introduction of entirely new categories. Leaks and analyst reports suggest a new lineup of iPhones (including a potential "Air" model and significant Pro upgrades), M5-powered MacBooks (Pro and Air), updated iPads (including a budget-friendly option and an M4-equipped Air), a long-anticipated external monitor, and a smart home hub. This aggressive roadmap underscores Apple's continued innovation and its strategy to maintain market leadership across various tech segments.

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A Glimpse into Apple's Future Product Landscape

Apple, a company synonymous with innovation and meticulously planned product releases, appears to be preparing for an exceptionally active period of new hardware introductions. While the traditional fall iPhone event is always a highlight, reports from reliable sources like Bloomberg's Mark Gurman indicate a continuous stream of new devices arriving through the first half of 2026, covering iPhones, Macs, iPads, and venturing into new smart home categories.

iPhones: Evolution and New Variants

The iPhone lineup is set for its annual refresh and more, with significant changes rumored for both late 2025 and early 2026:

  • iPhone 17 Series (Late 2025): The standard iPhone 17 models are expected to feature notable performance and camera improvements. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max (potentially rebranded as "Ultra") are rumored to undergo a significant rear camera redesign and potentially reverse the "iPhone X design decision" for some features.

  • iPhone 17 Air / 17e (Early 2026): Rumors suggest a new, ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air could replace the "Plus" model, focusing on a thinner design and possibly a simplified single-camera system. Alternatively, a budget-friendly iPhone 17e is also anticipated, succeeding the iPhone 16e and featuring an updated A19 chip while retaining a familiar design, potentially launching as early as February 2026.

Macs: M5 Power and Design Shifts

Apple's Mac lineup will continue its transition to Apple Silicon with the introduction of the M5 chip across various models:

  • M5 MacBook Pro (Early 2026): Both 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to receive the M5 chip. These models, initially slated for 2025, are now anticipated for early 2026 and could be the last with the current chassis design before Apple introduces new cases and OLED screens in future iterations.

  • M5 MacBook Air (Early 2026): New 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models, both equipped with the M5 chip, are also expected to launch in early 2026.

  • Mac Studio & Mac Pro (Late 2025/Early 2026): Updates to Apple's highest-end desktops are also expected, potentially featuring M4 Ultra or M4 Extreme chips, pushing benchmark performance.

iPads: A Comprehensive Refresh

The iPad family is set for a substantial update, with models catering to various segments:

  • Updated iPad Air (March/April 2026): The iPad Air is expected to receive a significant boost, upgrading to the M4 chip.

  • Low-Cost iPad (March/April 2026): The entry-level iPad is also slated for an update, featuring a faster processor and retaining its current design.

  • iPad Pro with M5 (Late 2025/Early 2026): The high-end iPad Pro could see an update to the even faster M5 chip.

Beyond Core Products: Displays, Home, and More

Apple is also venturing into and refreshing other product categories:

  • New External Display (Early 2026): Following the Apple Studio Display (2022) and Pro Display XDR, Apple is planning a new external monitor, potentially featuring 7K resolution and catering to creative professionals.

  • Smart Home Hub (First Half of 2026): The long-rumored smart home hub, which faced delays due to Siri development, is now expected to launch. This device is anticipated to integrate with Apple Intelligence features and expand Apple's presence in home automation. Reports suggest it could feature a 6-inch display and be wall-mounted or placed on a countertop.

  • Apple Watch Updates (Late 2025): The Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3 are expected with minor updates, including potential new health tracking features like blood pressure monitoring.

  • AirPods Pro 3 (Late 2025/Early 2026): A new generation of AirPods Pro is anticipated with improved noise cancellation, a new H3 chip, and possibly health features like temperature and heart rate monitoring.

  • AirTag 2: An improved AirTag with better tracking accuracy and enhanced privacy is also reportedly in the works.

This extensive product roadmap suggests that Apple is not only focusing on incremental updates but also on strategic moves into emerging categories like advanced AI-powered devices and smart home integration, ensuring its continued relevance and competitiveness in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

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