iPhone, MacBook, iPad 2026: Spring updates for Apple's entry-level models
Apple could leverage the growing frustration with Windows' AI-ification to lure switchers with an affordable laptop. More hardware is coming.
The wedge-shaped MacBook Air M1 – a classic that is currently only available at Walmart.
(Image: heise medien)
Apple's hardware spring 2026 seems to be fuller than usual: in addition to fresh iPhone and iPad entry-level models, a newcomer is apparently planned for the early months of next year: a more affordable MacBook. The budget MacBook is expected to feature a 13-inch display, an iPhone chip, a wider color selection, and will be priced significantly below the 1000-euro mark. Several industry observers agree on this, who generally have good insight into Apple's product plans.
Budget MacBook emerges
GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu has now joined the chorus in a memo to investors, as Macrumors reports. Apple will make certain compromises for this and may rely on an older case design. It has long been speculated that the manufacturer will continue to use the iconic wedge design of earlier MacBook Air generations for this. Walmart in the US currently still sells this in the M1 version (model year 2020) for currently 600 US dollars.
Videos by heise
Apple has long ruled out a low-cost laptop, instead tending to make new models more expensive. However, with the MacBook Air M4, there is again an attractive entry-level model, which can currently be found in stores for just under 800 euros (starting from 868 €). The successor – the MacBook Air M5 – is also likely planned for spring 2026. With a more affordable model, Apple would enter the budget class dominated by Windows laptops for the first time. The dissatisfaction with the end of Windows 10 support and the heavy-handed integration of AI functions into Windows 11 could lead to one or the other switcher.
New iPhones and iPads 2026
In February, March, or at the latest in April, Apple is also expected to introduce an iPhone 17e with the current A19 chip – as well as the improved selfie camera that has just debuted in the iPhone 17 series. The Dynamic Island, which displays small app information at the top of the screen, is also being considered for this model series. The spring date already marks an anticipated major shift in the introduction of new iPhones: In autumn 2026, Apple is expected to focus on Pro models, including the 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and an "iPhone Fold". The iPhone 18, iPhone Air 2, and iPhone 18e could then follow in early 2027.
For Apple tablets, both the base model and the iPad Air are due for an update. According to analyst information, the iPad 12 will receive the A18 chip, thus providing support for Apple Intelligence, which is currently missing in this model series. The iPad Air is also expected to make the jump from M3 to M4. The expensive iPad Pro recently received the M5.
Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt
Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen.
Ich bin damit einverstanden, dass mir externe Inhalte angezeigt werden. Damit können personenbezogene Daten an Drittplattformen (heise Preisvergleich) übermittelt werden. Mehr dazu in unserer Datenschutzerklärung.
(lbe)
