Apple’s spring event is almost here, and the buzz is louder than ever. Every year, rumors swirl around what Apple will reveal next. This time, the spotlight is on the iPhone 17e, new MacBooks, updated iPads, and possible M5 chip upgrades.
But not every rumored Apple product will make the cut. Some devices look almost certain. Others may have to wait until later in 2026.
Let’s break down what Apple is most likely preparing to launch — and what probably won’t show up just yet.
iPhone 17e: Apple’s Most Anticipated Spring Release
If there’s one device that feels nearly guaranteed, it’s the iPhone 17e.
Apple appears to be fully committed to splitting its iPhone launches into two waves each year. The premium models arrive in the fall, while the more affordable version gets its own spotlight in the spring. The iPhone 17e fits perfectly into that strategy.
iPhone 17e Specs and Features
The iPhone 17e is expected to feature a 6.1-inch 60Hz OLED display, similar in size to previous models. Don’t expect a radical redesign. Apple will likely keep the familiar look while upgrading the internal hardware.
The biggest upgrade? The new A19 chip. This is the same processor expected in the standard iPhone 17 lineup. That means faster performance, improved battery efficiency, and better AI processing.
Apple will also include its newest in-house cellular and wireless chips. This gives the company tighter control over performance and connectivity.
One major improvement is the addition of MagSafe. The previous model skipped it, which disappointed many users. With MagSafe returning, the iPhone 17e will support magnetic chargers, wallets, and accessories.
There’s also speculation that Apple may replace the notch with the Dynamic Island. If that happens, it would give the iPhone 17e a more modern look.
Expected Price of iPhone 17e
Current projections suggest a starting price around $599. That keeps it affordable while still powerful — a strong option for users who want Apple performance without paying flagship prices.
Budget MacBook: A New Affordable Mac Option
Another strong contender for the March launch is a new budget MacBook.
Apple currently offers the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. This new device would create a third tier — a more affordable MacBook aimed at students and switchers.
What Makes This MacBook Different?
Instead of using an M-series chip, Apple may include an iPhone-class processor, possibly the A15 or A18 Pro. That sounds unusual, but it makes sense. These chips are already powerful enough for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and office work.
By using an iPhone chip, Apple can reduce costs without sacrificing performance for casual users.
The device will likely feature a 13-inch display and maintain an aluminum body. Rather than switching to cheaper materials, Apple may rely on manufacturing efficiencies to lower costs.
Colorful MacBook Design
This budget MacBook may stand out visually. Instead of neutral tones like silver and space gray, Apple is reportedly testing colors such as yellow, green, blue, and pink. Think of it as a modern throwback to the colorful iMac era.
Budget MacBook Price
The expected price range is between $699 and $750. That makes it one of the most affordable Mac laptops Apple has ever released.
MacBook Pro and MacBook Air with M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips
Apple already introduced the base M5 chip in the 14-inch MacBook Pro. However, the higher-tier M5 Pro and M5 Max versions have not yet arrived.
Historically, Apple releases advanced chip variants a few months after the base model. A March update aligns perfectly with that pattern.
What to Expect from the M5 Upgrades
Do not expect major design changes. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models will likely look the same externally.
The real story is performance.
The M5 Pro and M5 Max chips will deliver faster speeds, better graphics performance, and improved efficiency. These upgrades will appeal to video editors, developers, designers, and power users.
The MacBook Air may also receive an M5 refresh around the same time. Apple tends to update both product lines together.
If you’re waiting for an OLED MacBook, though, you’ll need patience. That redesign is expected later.
iPad Air 2026: A Simple but Powerful Upgrade
The iPad Air typically follows an annual update cycle. Since Apple refreshed it in March 2025, a March 2026 update makes perfect sense.
Reports suggest the iPad Air will move from the M3 chip to the M4 chip. That’s not a dramatic change visually, but performance will improve.
For students, creators, and everyday users, the M4 chip means smoother multitasking and better support for advanced apps.
Expect Apple to focus on internal improvements rather than external redesigns.
Standard iPad: Likely A19 Chip Upgrade
The base iPad doesn’t generate huge headlines, but it quietly remains one of Apple’s best-selling devices.
Like the iPad Air, it follows a fairly predictable update pattern. The next version is expected to include the A19 chip.
This upgrade would improve speed, gaming performance, and long-term software support.
Apple may not dedicate much stage time to it, but a refreshed base iPad fits neatly into a spring hardware update.
Mac Studio and Mac Mini: Probably Coming Later
While many expected desktop Macs to receive M5 upgrades alongside MacBooks, recent leaks suggest otherwise.
The Mac mini and Mac Studio may launch in summer 2026 instead of March.
That strategy helps Apple spread out announcements and keep attention focused on its portable lineup during spring.
When they do arrive, expect M5 Pro in the Mac mini and at least M5 Max in the Mac Studio. An M5 Ultra variant remains uncertain.
Launching these desktops closer to WWDC would also appeal directly to developers.
Apple Studio Display: Not Quite Ready Yet
An updated Apple Studio Display has been rumored for a while. However, it likely won’t appear during the March announcements.
Future versions may include:
Mini LED backlighting
Higher resolution, possibly 6K or even 7K
A larger 32-inch model option
Multiple internal codenames suggest Apple could release two sizes.
But for now, it appears this monitor upgrade will arrive later in 2026.
Apple Home Hub: Still a Future Vision
The long-rumored Apple Home Hub — a smart home display device — continues to generate interest.
The concept involves a tablet-like screen designed to control smart home devices. It may include a camera, Face ID, Apple Intelligence features, and sound detection capabilities.
There are also whispers of a smart camera companion device.
While 2026 seems realistic for these products, they likely won’t debut during a low-key spring rollout. A device this significant would require a major event.
Final Thoughts: What Apple Is Most Likely to Launch
If we look at everything logically, here’s what feels most realistic for March 2026:
The iPhone 17e appears almost certain.
A new budget MacBook looks highly probable.
M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro upgrades make sense.
The iPad Air and base iPad refreshes align with Apple’s yearly schedule.
Desktop Macs, the Studio Display, and the Home Hub will probably arrive later.
Apple’s spring strategy seems clear. Refresh popular products. Improve performance. Expand accessibility with more affordable options.
And if even half of these rumors prove true, March will be an exciting month for Apple fans.