Apple is reportedly preparing to begin 2026 with a concentrated rollout of hardware and software releases, including the iPhone 17e, updated iPad models, new Mac computers, and upcoming iOS upgrades. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is targeting enterprise deployments and emerging markets while expanding Apple Intelligence support across its device portfolio.
iPhone 17e upgrade and market positioning
The iPhone 17e is expected to arrive shortly as the successor to last year’s iPhone 16e. The device is said to adopt the A19 chip from the iPhone 17 lineup and add MagSafe charging. It is also shifting to Apple’s latest in-house cellular and wireless components.
Pricing is reportedly planned to remain at $599 (Rs. 54246 approx.). Apple is expected to market the device toward enterprise customers and users in emerging economies. Competitive pressure in this segment may be limited, with Google’s upcoming Pixel 10a not expected to introduce major upgrades and Samsung focusing more on premium devices.
iPad refresh brings processor upgrades and Apple Intelligence
Apple is also preparing refreshed iPads, including an updated entry-level model and new iPad Air variants. The report indicates that major design changes are not planned this cycle, with upgrades centered on performance.
The base iPad is moving to the A18 chip, enabling Apple Intelligence support for the first time on this model. Apple is expected to emphasize this capability, particularly for enterprise use. The iPad Air is transitioning to Apple’s M4 processor, while the iPad mini is reportedly moving to an OLED display.
Apple’s iPad business recorded stronger-than-expected holiday performance, with revenue increasing 6% year over year. The company attributed much of that growth to the entry-level iPad, which remains a focus for enterprise deployments.
Mac refresh spans laptops, desktops, and display updates
Several Mac releases are approaching, including new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models and a MacBook Air powered by Apple’s M5 processor. Updated Mac Studio desktops are also planned, along with a refreshed Studio Display that is expected to closely resemble the current version. New Mac mini models are reportedly scheduled for later in the year.
A lower-cost MacBook is expected to be a key computer launch in the first half of 2026. The device is said to feature a display under 13 inches and use an iPhone-class processor. Apple is positioning the model to compete with entry-level Windows laptops and Chromebooks, targeting switchers as well as enterprise and emerging market buyers.
Software roadmap and expected timing
Apple is preparing iOS 26.4, which is expected to introduce elements of the delayed Siri upgrade, including a more personalized chatbot-style interface. The first developer beta is reportedly scheduled for the week of February 23.
Additional software previews are expected at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Beyond Siri-related features, Apple is focusing on system refinements in iOS 27, including bug fixes, removal of legacy code, and interface tuning.
The upcoming MacBook Pro refresh is reportedly tied to the macOS 26.3 release cycle running through March. Limited availability of existing high-end MacBook Pro configurations is viewed as a signal of an incoming update, with a hardware announcement potentially arriving as early as the week of March 2.
Second-half roadmap
Looking further into 2026, Apple is reportedly preparing its first foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. A redesigned MacBook Pro featuring an OLED display and touch support is also in development, marking a shift in Apple’s approach to Mac input hardware.