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A lot is riding on 2026 for Apple. According to Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman, the company is planning one of its most extensive product years in recent memory. More than 15 new devices are expected to be released – from redesigned iPhones and iPads to new Macs, smart home devices, and even a possible pair of smart glasses. At the same time, Apple must contend with regulatory pressure, trade tariffs, and the launch of its new AI platform, Apple Intelligence.
Apple has been considered a driving force in the tech industry for years. But 2026 is set to be more than just another product year for the company. Between new chips, new categories, and new designs, a turning point is on the horizon. Mark Gurman, in his newsletter "Power On," states that Apple is facing one of its "most important years in recent memory." As hardware, software, and artificial intelligence converge, the company is simultaneously striving to become less dependent on suppliers and maintain even greater control over its ecosystem.
First half of 2026: Focus on iPhone, iPad and Mac
In the first half of 2026, Apple will launch a wide range of new products. The plan includes the introduction of the iPhone 17e, which is aimed at the mid-range market. There will also be two new iPad models: the 12th generation iPad with the A18 chip and a new iPad Air, which will be equipped with the M4 chip for the first time.
The Mac is also receiving a comprehensive update. The MacBook Air will launch with the M5 chip, while the MacBook Pro will be available in versions with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. New external displays are expected to complement the Mac lineup, likely with higher resolution and improved brightness.
In parallel, Apple is planning to unveil a new smart home display, according to Gurman. It will feature a speaker base, be optionally wall-mountable, and come with a completely redesigned version of Siri. This new version of Siri is part of Apple's Intelligence initiative and is expected to be significantly more powerful and context-aware. The launch is anticipated in March or April.
Fall 2026: The big iPhone update and new Apple Watches
As usual, the focus this fall will be on the iPhone. Apple will unveil the iPhone 18 series, with the Pro models featuring the company's own C2 chip for the first time, foregoing Qualcomm modems. Apple aims to reduce its reliance on external suppliers and gain more control over performance, efficiency, and security.
Another highlight is expected to be the first foldable iPhone, which Gurman predicts could be unveiled in 2026. The development of a foldable device has been underway for years, and Apple now appears to be approaching the final stages.
Apple remains active in the wearables sector as well. New Apple Watches are expected, likely with improved sensors and enhanced health monitoring.
New smart home products and desktop Macs
In 2026, Apple plans to expand its smart home offerings. In addition to the aforementioned smart display, a new security camera is in development, which is expected to be tightly integrated with HomeKit. This would represent another step for Apple towards a complete smart home ecosystem.
Several updates are on the way for desktop devices. The Mac mini is expected to be released in 2026 with an M5 chip, as is a new Mac Studio. The iPad mini will also receive a redesign: for the first time, it will have an OLED display. An update for the iPad Pro, however, is not planned until 2027.
Year-end: MacBook Pro with M6 and a look to the future
Another update to the MacBook Pro line is expected towards the end of the year. The new models are rumored to be equipped with M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, feature a thinner chassis, and, for the first time, include touchscreens and OLED displays. This would mean Apple is introducing a feature that was long considered unlikely.
An additional highlight could be the first preview of Apple's smart glasses before the end of 2026. According to Gurman, the device is already being produced in small quantities by suppliers. The presentation could serve as a glimpse into a new product category that is intended to complement or even replace the iPhone in the long term.
Apple 2026: Between new beginnings and challenges
2026 could be one of Apple's most significant years in a long time. New devices across nearly all product lines, entry into the smart home security market, advancements in its own chips, and the gradual integration of Apple Intelligence mark a comprehensive transformation. At the same time, the company faces pressure: The App Store is under greater regulatory scrutiny than ever before, and potential new tariffs could negatively impact business.
Nevertheless, Apple remains true to its course – with a clear focus on independence, design, and integration. 2026 should show whether this course continues to be the key to success or whether the company needs to reinvent itself to stay at the top. (Image: Shutterstock / ThewayIsee)
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