Sometimes Apple reveals more than intended – through its own code. References to three new products have surfaced in the source code of macOS 26.3: a more affordable MacBook positioned below the MacBook Air, and two new versions of the Studio Display. Given the increasing number of these references and the fact that the code names have also appeared in previous updates, an imminent release is considered very likely.
Apple products often hint at their existence in the code of operating system updates before their official release. Those who know where to look can find code names that point to upcoming hardware. Filipe Espósito (MacWorld) did just that in the source code of macOS 26.3 – and found three specific code names:
- J700 – stands for a more affordable MacBook
- J427 – indicates a new studio display
- J527 – refers to a new, higher-quality studio display model
These code names are not new. They have appeared in previous software updates, including macOS 26.2 and iOS 18.5 from last year. The increasing frequency of these indications suggests that all three products are nearing release.
The more affordable MacBook: The return of an old brand
What is behind the codename J700?
The more affordable MacBook is by far the most discussed of the three products. It's not a new generation of an existing model, but a completely new device positioned below the MacBook Air. This is a deliberate decision by Apple to fill a gap in the lower price segment – and simultaneously revive a brand that has been inactive for years.
From 2015 to 2019, Apple sold a slim 12-inch laptop simply called "MacBook"—without the "Air" or "Pro" designations. This device ran on Intel processors and was discontinued in 2019. With the new model, Apple would revive the simple "MacBook" name after several years—this time, however, on a completely different technical foundation.
A18 Pro instead of M-Chip: An unusual decision
The rumored choice of processor is particularly noteworthy. According to recent reports, the more affordable MacBook will not be powered by an M-series chip, but rather by a version of the A18 Pro, which is already used in the iPhone 16 Pro. This would be a first – since Apple switched from Intel to its own chips, all Mac models have been released exclusively with M-series chips. The reason Apple would opt for an iPhone chip here is likely primarily due to cost: an A18 Pro is cheaper to manufacture than an M-series chip, allowing Apple to significantly lower the retail price.
Display, memory and colors
The new MacBook is rumored to have a 12.9-inch display and 8 GB of RAM. In terms of design, Apple is reportedly taking inspiration from the iMac's vibrant aesthetic: the device is expected to be available in various bright colors, including yellow, green, blue, and/or pink. This would represent a clear departure from the previously more understated MacBook design in silver, space gray, or midnight.
Price: Significantly cheaper than a MacBook Air
The starting price is not yet officially known. Estimates in the US range between $599 and $799 – which would put the new MacBook significantly below the current MacBook Air, which is available in the US starting at $1,099 (in Germany starting at €1,099). This would be a serious attempt to create a new entry-level laptop for a wider audience.
When and where will it be presented?
Apple is expected to announce the more affordable MacBook during a three-day launch event in the first week of March. Media representatives will have the opportunity to handle and test the device themselves at the "Apple Experience" in New York, London, and Shanghai on Wednesday, March 4th, at 9:00 AM Eastern Time (3:00 PM CET).
The new Studio Display models: A long-awaited update
The current model: Unchanged since 2022
Before we look at the new models, it's worth taking a look at the current situation. The current Apple Studio Display was released in March 2022 alongside the first Mac Studio. It features a 27-inch screen with 5K resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, a maximum brightness of 600 nits, and no mini-LED backlighting. It also includes an integrated camera and speakers, a Thunderbolt 3 port, and three USB-C ports. The starting price in Germany is €1,749.
The device is therefore technically over three years old – a long time in the monitor world, especially considering the developments in refresh rate, brightness and display technology.
J427: The new studio display with mini-LED and up to 120 Hz
The first new model (codename J427) is shaping up to be the following: It will still feature a 27-inch screen, but this time with Mini-LED backlighting. This has a direct impact on image quality – Mini-LED allows for higher maximum brightness and a significantly better contrast ratio compared to the current model without this technology.
In addition, it offers HDR support and a refresh rate of up to 90 Hz or 120 Hz – a significant improvement over the previous 60 Hz. Users of Macs with a ProMotion display finally have more flexibility on the external side as well.
Internally, an A19 or A19 Pro chip is expected to power the device – a significant improvement over the current A13 Bionic. This newer chip should result in, among other things, improved camera performance and additional software-based features, such as those found in Center Stage and Studio Light. According to current reports, however, no major design changes are anticipated – the visual appearance of the Studio Display is expected to remain largely unchanged.
J527: The higher-quality model – still largely unknown
Very little concrete information has leaked about the second model (codename J527). It is said to be a higher-end variant. Speculation suggests a larger screen – rumors point to a 32-inch display, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. Further technical details are not yet known.
Timeline: First half of 2026 – but when exactly?
Both new Studio Display models are expected to be released in the first half of 2026. Whether they will be part of the announcements in the first week of March or will be released at a later date remains to be seen.
Spring 2026: Apple streamlines its lineup
Three new Apple products, three codenames in the source code, and increasing evidence pointing in the same direction: The more affordable MacBook and two new Studio Display models are apparently nearing their market launch. The new MacBook, in particular, is likely to attract attention – as the first Mac model with an A-series chip instead of an M-series chip, and as an entry-level device in a price segment Apple hasn't previously addressed. After four years, the new Studio Displays finally bring Mini-LED, HDR, and higher refresh rates to Apple's external monitor line. How many of these details will ultimately prove true will become clear by early March at the latest. (Image: Shutterstock / Champhei)
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