Apple’s ambitious plans for 2026: What gadgets is the company preparing to launch?

According to insider information from Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, Apple is planning a major rollout of new devices in the first half of 2026. The lineup includes updates to popular products like the iPhone, MacBook, and iPad, as well as entirely new gadgets that could shake up the market. These announcements are expected to build on the releases scheduled for late 2025. Here’s a breakdown of what Apple fans can look forward to in the near future.

iPhone 17e: An Affordable Flagship with a New Chip

One of the main highlights will be the iPhone 17e, expected to launch as early as February 2026. This smartphone will likely be positioned as a more affordable model within the iPhone 17 lineup but will feature a major upgrade — the A19 chip. The new processor promises improved performance and energy efficiency compared to the A18 used in the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro (2024). Gurman hasn’t revealed design details or other specs, but judging by previous “e” models (like the iPhone SE), the iPhone 17e may retain a compact form factor while offering flagship-level performance at a lower price.

Mac Updates: MacBook Air and Pro with M5 Chips

In 2026, Apple will continue enhancing its computer lineup. The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro will receive next-gen M5 processors, expected to be built on TSMC’s 2nm process. This could result in a 15–20% performance increase over the M4 (debuted in the 2024 iPad Pro), along with improved power efficiency — especially important for the Air.

The MacBook Pro is expected to retain its 14- and 16-inch variants, while the Air may get a refreshed design with a slimmer build or new color options.

The MacBook release is expected around March–April 2026, consistent with Apple’s traditional spring launch window for computers.

iPad: Air and Budget Model Step Up

Apple’s iPad lineup is also due for an upgrade. The iPad Air will receive the M4 chip (already in the 2024 iPad Pro), making it a powerful tool for creativity and productivity. The budget iPad (11th gen) will likely switch to a more capable processor — possibly the A16 or A17 — offering a significant speed boost over the A14 Bionic in the iPad 10 (2022).

These tablets are also expected in March or April 2026, aligning with the company’s usual refresh cycle for iPads.

New Monitors and a Smart Home Hub

Apple is also working on successors to its professional monitors — the Apple Studio Display and Pro Display XDR. The new versions may feature upgrades like 120Hz ProMotion, mini-LED, or even micro-LED for better contrast and brightness. These enhancements would make them even more appealing to professionals in design, video, and animation.

Another intriguing addition is a smart home hub. Gurman suggests this device could serve as a central controller for the HomeKit ecosystem, managing smart devices like lights, thermostats, and cameras. The hub might include a display (similar to the Amazon Echo Show) and support for Matter, the universal smart home standard. This move signals Apple’s response to increasing competition in the smart home space from Google and Amazon.

Context: What’s Coming in Late 2025

The 2026 releases will build on several key products expected in Q4 2025, including:

• iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro, featuring the A19 Pro chip, upgraded cameras, and possibly a new design
• Apple Watch Series 11, including Ultra 3 and SE 3, with improved health sensors and longer battery life
• iPad Pro (2025), likely debuting with the M5 chip

These products will lay the groundwork for Apple’s 2026 innovations, strengthening its ecosystem even further.

Why It Matters

Apple’s 2026 roadmap highlights the company’s intention to both refresh existing lines and expand into new categories like smart home hubs. The iPhone 17e could attract users seeking an affordable yet powerful phone, while new Macs and iPads will solidify Apple’s position in professional and educational markets. The upgraded monitors and smart home hub suggest Apple is ready to compete with Samsung, LG, and Amazon in new arenas.

However, the competition is intensifying. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google’s Pixel 10 already offer advanced AI features, while Chinese brands like Xiaomi and Oppo are gaining ground in the mid-range market. Apple’s success will depend on how innovative its new products truly are.

Conclusion

According to Mark Gurman’s leak, Apple is planning to launch in early 2026:

• iPhone 17e with the A19 chip
• MacBook Air and Pro with M5 chips
• iPad Air with M4
• Budget iPad with a faster processor
• New Apple Studio Display and Pro Display XDR
• A smart home hub with screen and Matter support

These devices will continue Apple’s expansion into the premium segment and strengthen its ecosystem. Following the major releases of late 2025 — including the iPhone 17, Apple Watch Series 11, and iPad Pro — 2026 is shaping up to be another landmark year for Apple. The big question remains: can Apple meet expectations and maintain its leadership in an increasingly competitive tech landscape?