According to the investment firm Wedbush, Apple is facing an exceptionally important year. Although the company has pursued its AI strategy rather discreetly so far, analysts expect a significant turning point in 2026. New AI features, a revamped Siri, an exclusive partnership with Google Gemini, and the iPhone 18 series are expected to usher Apple into a new phase.
In December 2025, Wedbush raised its price target for Apple to $350. This was driven by strong demand for the iPhone and the expectation of a new version of Siri in 2026. In a recent note to investors, Wedbush reaffirmed this assessment and even more clearly identified 2026 as a potentially monumental year for Apple. Besides AI, iPhone sales and internal developments also play a role in this forecast.
The four key points of the Wedbush analysis
Wedbush divides his current assessment of Apple into four key areas. This structure largely corresponds to the analysis from December, but now places greater emphasis on each.
Transformation of the Google Gemini partnership
Wedbush describes Apple's current AI strategy as largely invisible. 2026 is intended to be the year in which Apple Intelligence must prove its practical value. The partnership with Google Gemini will play a key role in this.
Analysts expect this collaboration to be exclusive. Furthermore, Wedbush sees no significant regulatory obstacles remaining following the conclusion of the US Department of Justice's proceedings against Google.
Revised Siri as an AI hub
Another key point is Siri. Wedbush believes it is crucial that Apple delivers a significantly revised version of the voice assistant in a timely manner. The new Siri should be a direct response to ChatGPT and Perplexity.
Furthermore, Wedbush expects the new Siri to not only be more functionally advanced, but also to lay the foundation for an AI subscription service. This could allow Apple to monetize AI features more effectively for the first time.
iPhone 18 and new impulses in the product portfolio
Shortly after the launch of the iPhone 17 series, Wedbush had already raised his price target for Apple from $310 to $320. Strong demand, particularly in China, confirmed this assessment. Against this backdrop, Wedbush also expects strong sales for the iPhone 18 series.
Wedbush sees additional momentum in anticipated changes to the product portfolio. The analysts agree with earlier speculation that Apple could launch its first foldable iPhone in September 2026. An iPhone Fold would further boost demand.
At the same time, Wedbush anticipates price increases. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could become about $100 more expensive. Reasons for this include rising component costs and the renegotiation of memory contracts in 2026.
Tim Cook remains CEO
The fourth point concerns the leadership level. Contrary to other analysts' opinions, Wedbush does not expect a CEO change in the near future. Tim Cook is expected to continue overseeing Apple's strategic direction, particularly in the area of AI.
While Wedbush considers the appointment of AI researcher Amar Subramanya important, it does not indicate Cook's imminent departure. Analysts believe he will remain in office at least until the end of 2027.
Wedbush expects turning point for Apple
Wedbush concludes that Wall Street is currently underestimating Apple. Despite a long-standing, somewhat vague AI strategy, the investment firm predicts a clear breakthrough for the company in 2026. A new Siri, the integration of Google Gemini, strong iPhone 18 sales, and continuity at the top could lead Apple to one of the most important years in its recent history. Wedbush sees Apple as particularly well-positioned in the field of artificial intelligence, even if its visible launch comes later than that of its competitors. (Image: ifeelstock / DepositPhotos.com)
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