Apple is poised for a busy early , planning a significant wave of product releases spanning iPhones, iPads, Macs, and software updates. This isn’t simply a refresh of existing lines; it signals a strategic shift towards more accessible hardware, catering to both enterprise users and price-sensitive markets without sacrificing long-term support.
iPhone 17e: Balancing Price and Performance
Leading the charge is the iPhone 17e, positioned as a successor to last year’s anticipated iPhone 16e. While maintaining a similar price point of $599, the 17e boasts substantial internal upgrades. Notably, it will feature the A19 chip – the same processor powering the standard iPhone 17 models – delivering a significant performance and efficiency boost over its predecessor. This move challenges the conventional approach of budget models receiving older or less powerful processors.
Apple is also integrating MagSafe charging into the iPhone 17e, a feature previously absent from the “e” series. The device will incorporate Apple’s latest in-house cellular and wireless chips, increasing control over hardware and connectivity. The company intends to heavily market the iPhone 17e in emerging markets and to enterprise customers, capitalizing on a gap in the market where competitors either focus on premium devices or offer only incremental improvements to their budget offerings. A launch event is anticipated before the end of .
iPad Updates: Internal Gains, Familiar Designs
Alongside the new iPhone, Apple is preparing updates to its iPad lineup, including both the entry-level iPad and new iPad Air variants. While a major design overhaul isn’t expected, the internal components are receiving attention. The base iPad will move to the A18 chip, while the iPad Air will jump to the M4 processor.
The A18 upgrade is particularly significant as it brings Apple Intelligence support to the entry-level iPad for the first time. Apple plans to emphasize this capability in its marketing, positioning the tablet as a more intelligent and versatile device for everyday tasks, study, and professional use. An exception to the incremental update strategy is the iPad mini, which is slated to receive an OLED display, promising improved contrast and color accuracy.
Macs: M5 Power and a New Entry Point
The Mac lineup is also due for a refresh, with new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros on the horizon, alongside a MacBook Air powered by the upcoming M5 processor. Updated Mac Studio desktops and a refreshed Studio Display – maintaining a similar design to the current model – are also in development.
Perhaps the most intriguing Mac launch is a new, lower-cost MacBook. Featuring a screen size under 13 inches and powered by an iPhone-class chip, this model is designed to directly compete with affordable Windows laptops and Chromebooks. Apple views this as a way to attract new users and organizations seeking macOS access without the premium price tag.
Software Updates and the Future of Siri
Apple’s plans extend beyond hardware. The company is preparing to release iOS in the coming weeks, which will include components of the long-awaited Siri upgrade. The first developer beta is expected to arrive in the last week of .
While the Worldwide Developers Conference in is expected to be less focused on major new features than in previous years, Apple’s attention is shifting towards performance improvements, bug fixes, and streamlining older parts of its software. The Siri upgrade will focus on delivering a more personalized experience with chatbot-like capabilities.
Looking Ahead: Foldable iPhones and OLED MacBook Pros
The initial wave of launches represents only the first phase of Apple’s product roadmap. In the latter half of the year, Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone, followed by the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. On the Mac side, a significant change is planned with a MacBook Pro featuring an OLED display and touch screen support – a feature Apple has previously resisted.
