Apple is facing one of its most extensive product phases in recent years. Internal software leaks, kernel debug files, and reports from reliable sources provide a detailed insight into Apple's plans for 2026 and 2027. These plans encompass not only new iPhones and Macs, but also entirely new device categories, a strategic shift in AR and VR, and a stronger focus on AI and smart home technology.
The following information summarizes all currently known rumors and leaks. It is sorted by the expected release period and shows how Apple intends to further develop its product lines.
The details listed here are derived from internal versions of iOS 26, accidentally released kernel files, and reports from news sites such as The Information. These are not official announcements from Apple. Production plans, features, and release dates are subject to change at any time, especially for products not expected until late 2026 or 2027.
Nevertheless, the many individual pieces of information provide a fairly clear picture of what Apple is currently working on and what strategic direction the company is taking.
Apple products early and spring 2026
iPhone 17e
The iPhone 17e is expected to be released in early 2026. It will not use the C1 modem, but rather Apple's more powerful C1X modem. Compared to the iPhone 16e, it will support MagSafe, a feature previously missing. The N1 Wireless chip is not expected to be included.
AirTag 2
The AirTag 2 is expected in early 2026. Apple is working on improved pairing, more accurate battery level information, and better tracking of AirTags that are moving or in crowded areas.
Home Hub
The new Home Hub is slated for release in spring 2026 alongside iOS 26.4. Two versions are planned: a wall-mounted model and one with a speaker base similar to a HomePod. Features will include a 1080p video camera, Face ID for recognizing multiple users, profile switching, and support for Apple Intelligence.
HomePod mini 2
A new HomePod mini could be released at any time, presumably also in spring 2026. It will not be equipped with the N1 network chip. No major design changes are known.
Apple TV
A new Apple TV is considered fully developed. Its market launch would fit well with the other Apple Home products in early 2026.
Unknown home accessories
Under the codename J229, Apple is working on a previously unknown Home product. The code fragments mention sensors. These could include a camera, a standalone speaker base for the Home Hub, or another smart home accessory.
iPad 12
The iPad 12 is expected to be released in early 2026 and, according to current information, will be equipped with the A19 chip, which is also found in the iPhone 17. This is unusual, as Apple typically equips iPads with older chips. The N1 network chip is not planned.
M4 iPad Air
Apple is planning new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models with the M4 chip. Aside from the chip update, no major changes are known.
Affordable MacBook
Apple is working on a particularly affordable MacBook with an A18 Pro chip. It is expected to be released in early 2026 and will specifically compete with Chromebooks and inexpensive Windows laptops. It will be positioned as the most affordable MacBook in the lineup.
M5 MacBook Air
The MacBook Air will receive an update to the M5 chip in early 2026. No further major innovations are expected.
M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro
New MacBook Pro models with the M5 Pro and M5 Max are in development. An update in early 2026 is considered likely, although there are rumors of another update later that year.
September 2026
iPhone Fold
Apple plans to launch a foldable iPhone in September 2026. It opens like a book and is wider than it is tall when open. The inner display measures approximately 7.7 inches, the outer one around 5.3 inches. It features a single front-facing camera in the upper left corner and no Dynamic Island camera. Apple is currently struggling with a high failure rate in display production, so details may still change.
iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max
The iPhone 18 Pro models will feature an under-display TrueDepth system for Face ID, eliminating the need for Dynamic Island. A notch for the front-facing camera will remain in the top left corner of the display. At least one rear camera will have a variable aperture. TSMC's new A20 chip utilizes wafer-level multi-chip module packaging, enabling performance gains and improved AI capabilities. The modem options will be either the C1X or a new C2 modem. The design is similar to the iPhone 17 Pro models.
iPad mini 8
The iPad mini 8 could be equipped with an OLED display. The processor would likely be either the A20 Pro from the iPhone 18 Pro or the A19 Pro from the iPhone 17 Pro. Depending on the chip, the device could be released as early as fall 2026 or even earlier.
Apple Watch Series 12
The Apple Watch Series 12 is expected in September 2026. So far, there is no indication of major design or functional changes.
More Apple products for 2026
Apple Studio Display 2
Apple is developing two new displays as successors to the Studio Display. Differences could lie in size or display technology. At least one model is rumored to use Mini LED technology. The release is expected to coincide with new desktop Macs.
Mac mini with M5 and M5 Pro
The Mac mini will be updated with M5 and M5 Pro chips. The exact timing is unclear. A launch in early 2026 or later in the year is possible.
Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra
The Mac Studio will receive M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. An update is expected in the second half of 2026.
iMac Pro
Apple is working on a new iMac Pro with an M5 Max chip. Previous rumors suggested a display size of around 30 inches. The market launch is expected in 2026, alongside other M5 Max devices.
M6 MacBook Pro
The entry-level MacBook Pro could be switched to the M6 chip by the end of 2026.
M6 Pro and M6 Max MacBook Pro
These models are slated for a comprehensive redesign with an OLED display. A market launch at the end of 2026 is possible, but could also be postponed to the beginning of 2027.
Apple Watch Ultra 4
A fourth generation of the Apple Watch Ultra is in development. A release in September 2026 is possible, but not certain, as Apple does not necessarily update this model annually.
Apple products in 2027
iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e
The regular iPhone 18 will not be released in fall 2026, but rather in spring 2027. It will only be an incremental update. Apple may remove the haptic feedback and touch recognition of the camera control button. The iPhone 18e is expected to be released at the same time and will also receive only minor changes.
iPhone Air 2
The second-generation iPhone Air has been delayed and could be released in spring 2027. Apple is considering a second camera and a lower price to make the device more appealing.
iPhone for its 20th anniversary
The anniversary iPhone is expected to be released in September 2027. It will feature a nearly bezel-less design with a casing that curves around the edges on both the front and back. A narrow metal band will run around the center of the device. The selfie camera will be located under the display. This will be the first iPhone without visible display cutouts.
Tabletop robot
Apple is working on a tabletop robot with a thin robotic arm and a rotating base. It is considered a more powerful version of the Home Hub and is expected to be released in 2027.
AI smart glasses
Apple has paused work on AR and VR headsets to focus on AI-powered smart glasses. These are intended to compete with products like the Meta Ray-Bans. The codename has been changed from N50 to N401. A launch is planned for 2027, though an earlier start in late 2026 is possible.
Delayed or discontinued Apple projects
- The iPad Fold was postponed in favor of the iPhone Fold.
- Vision Air, a lighter version of Vision Pro, has been put on hold.
- Several AR glasses projects have been discontinued or put on hold, including standalone models and variants with Mac connectivity.
- Even the more affordable second-generation Vision Pro is not currently being further developed.
Unknown Apple products
Several internal code names have not yet been linked to any specific product. These include potential wearables, Apple Watch variants, Macs, or other home accessories. They demonstrate that Apple continues to work on new ideas, even if not every project is released.
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Apple's long-term product strategy at a glance
Apple's plans for 2026 and 2027 reveal a clear strategic realignment. Alongside the continued development of iPhone, Mac, and iPad, Apple is focusing more on AI, smart home technology, and new form factors. At the same time, AR and VR projects are being put on hold. While many details remain uncertain, it's clear that Apple isn't just planning minor updates in the coming years, but rather preparing several fundamental changes. This roadmap offers a rare glimpse into the company's long-term product strategy. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: trongnguyen / DepositPhotos.com)
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