Apple is preparing for a busy start to 2026. A Bloomberg report offers an early look at the new devices the company plans to launch in the first half of the year. This includes not only new versions of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, but also a new external Mac display—the first since the Studio Display in 2022. The roadmap points to a clear focus: performance improvements through new chips, minor design updates, and targeted investments in display technologies.
Internally, Apple has scheduled several products for the first half of 2026. These include a MacBook Pro with the M5 chip, a new MacBook Air, updated iPads, a new iPhone 17e, and a previously unannounced external Mac monitor. A smart home device is also being discussed, which was originally supposed to be released earlier but has now been postponed. The list of planned innovations shows that Apple continues to consistently focus on hardware updates – albeit without associating each cycle with a major upheaval.
New MacBook Pro with M5 chip
The upcoming MacBook Pro will reportedly feature the M5 chip and, according to reports, will be the last model with the current design. The market launch was originally planned for 2025, but has been postponed internally. In terms of design, everything will remain the same, with major changes—such as a new chassis and OLED displays—planned for the M6 generation. This makes the upcoming MacBook Pro a transitional solution between the current and the next major hardware cycle.
MacBook Air and iPads get moderate updates
The MacBook Air is also being redesigned. The iPad Air is planned to be upgraded to the M4 chip. Otherwise, the model remains technically and visually unchanged. The same applies to the entry-level iPad, which gets a faster chip but offers no other innovations. Apple seems to be deliberately focusing on stability without sacrificing performance improvements.
iPhone 17e with A19 chip planned
For the iPhone series, Apple is planning the iPhone 17e, which will be equipped with the new A19 chip. The design of the model is heavily influenced by the iPhone 16e. Here, too, the focus is on internal improvements, rather than a completely new look. The A19 processor is expected to set new standards, especially in terms of efficiency and AI performance, but details are still pending.
New external Mac monitor in the works
According to Bloomberg, a new external display for the Mac is also planned for early 2026. There are no official details on the technology yet, but rumors speak of a resolution of up to 7K. This would be a significant leap over the current Studio Display. This would signal Apple's renewed investment in high-quality desktop displays, especially for professional users.
Smart home display coming later
Another project concerns Apple's planned smart home display. This device was originally scheduled to be released in 2025, but has been postponed indefinitely. This is due to its reliance on Apple Intelligence features that aren't yet ready for market. However, Bloomberg believes it's possible the device could still be released sometime in 2026.
- Apple Vision aims to be lighter and more affordable
- Apple Vision Pro 2 is expected to be more powerful and comfortable
Small steps, big impact – Apple's 2026 update strategy
Apple is planning a broad update program across almost all product lines for the first half of 2026. The focus will be on new chips, enhanced performance, and selective design adjustments. The new Mac monitor could be a major highlight for professional users. At the same time, Apple is sticking to proven form factors and only planning major design changes for later generations. Anyone waiting for new Apple hardware in the first half of 2026 can expect a solid update – not spectacular, but consistent. (Image: Shutterstock / Mehaniq)
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