Apple is preparing for one of its most extensive product years in recent memory in 2026. Internal roadmaps and well-connected sources suggest up to 25 new devices are expected to be released throughout the year. This isn't just about traditional updates for iPhone, Mac, or iPad. Apple is significantly expanding its portfolio and focusing more on artificial intelligence, new display technologies, and a growing smart home ecosystem.
Apple is known for controlled product cycles and manageable innovations. 2026 breaks this pattern. The number of planned releases is higher than in previous years, and the product range is broader. In addition to more powerful chips and software updates, new device categories such as foldable iPhones, touch displays for the home, and the first steps toward Apple Glasses are taking center stage. The year can be clearly divided into three phases: winter and spring, summer, and fall.
Winter and Spring 2026: New entry-level products and focus on home
Apple is planning an unusually large number of new releases at the beginning of the year. The mix of more affordable entry-level devices and new Home products is particularly striking. The following iPhone and iPad models are planned:
- iPhone 17e with A19 chip, Dynamic Island and Center-Stage front camera
- Base iPad with updated chip and very likely with support for Apple Intelligence
- M4 iPad Air as a pure performance upgrade with new M4 chip
Accessories will also be updated:
- AirTag 2 with new ultra-wideband chip, improved range and additional safety features
Apple is planning several new products in the Mac segment. A completely new, affordable MacBook is particularly noteworthy. This model will be the first to use an A-series chip from the iPhone, will be available in several striking colors, and will be significantly cheaper than previous MacBooks. The lineup will be rounded out by:
- M5 MacBook Air with unchanged design, new M5 chip and likely new color options
- MacBook Pro in 14 and 16 inch with M5 Pro and M5 Max as powerful high-end options
External displays also play a role:
- Apple Studio Display 2 with 120Hz ProMotion and HDR support
- Second Mac display, possibly a new Pro Display XDR
Apple is significantly expanding its offerings in the home entertainment sector:
- Apple TV 4K with A17 Pro chip for Apple Intelligence and possibly an integrated camera
- HomePod Touch, a completely new product with a 7-inch touchscreen and a strong focus on AI-powered Siri.
- HomePod mini 2 with a new chip, better sound and other detailed improvements
Summer 2026: Software dominates, new desktop Macs
Summer is traditionally a quieter period for hardware releases. However, 2026 won't be solely focused on software. At WWDC in June, Apple will unveil iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, visionOS 27, watchOS 27, and tvOS 27. Apple Intelligence will be more deeply integrated across all platforms. Two new Macs will also be released alongside these updates.
- M5 Mac mini in versions with M5 and M5 Pro, otherwise with only minor changes
- M5 Mac Studio with M5 Max and a new M5 Ultra chip for exceptionally high performance
Design changes are unlikely for these models. The focus is clearly on performance and efficiency.
Fall 2026: Major iPhone innovations and new designs
Autumn remains Apple's most important period. In 2026, it will be particularly extensive. Several major innovations are expected for the iPhones:
- iPhone 18 Pro with A20 Pro chip, Face ID under the display, smaller Dynamic Island and new C2 modem
- iPhone 18 Pro Max with larger battery and variable aperture camera
- iPhone Fold, Apple's first foldable iPhone in book format with titanium casing and virtually crease-free display
Audio and wearables will also be significantly upgraded:
- AirPods Pro 3 with integrated cameras for AI features such as visual intelligence
- Apple Watch Series 12 with new S-series chip, enhanced health sensors and possible Touch ID
- Apple Watch Ultra 4 with similar health features and other improvements
In the iPad and Mac areas, Apple is relying on new display technologies:
- iPad mini with OLED display and A20 Pro chip
- M6 MacBook Pro, fundamentally redesigned, thinner and lighter, with OLED touch display
Products with an unclear start date: 2026
Some products are considered very likely, but do not yet have a firm release date:
- Apple Security Camera as a standalone smart home accessory with HomeKit Secure Video
- Apple Video Doorbell, where Face ID could enable integration with smart locks
- Apple Glasses or Apple Vision, paired with the iPhone, with AI features centered around Siri and integrated cameras. A presentation in 2026 is possible, with delivery more likely in 2027.
Apple 2026: More products, more variety, more innovation
Apple is facing an exceptionally extensive product year in 2026. Up to 25 new devices demonstrate the extent to which the company is expanding its ecosystem. In addition to classic updates for iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch, smart home technology, artificial intelligence, and new device forms are gaining significant importance. Even if not every rumor comes true, everything indicates that 2026 will be one of the most exciting years for Apple in a long time. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: thenews2.com / DepositPhotos.com)
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