The year is nearing its end, and although Apple still has software launches pending, no new hardware is anticipated until 2026. Nonetheless, there are four new products speculated to be released early in 2026, potentially as soon as January.
### MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch with M5 Pro and Max
This autumn, Apple introduced its new M5 chip across three devices: MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro. However, the new chip has yet to provide Pro or Max versions, and only the 14-inch MacBook Pro has utilized it. Reports suggest that Apple will roll out 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max early in 2026. Back in January 2023, Apple launched M2 Pro and M2 Max versions of the MacBook Pro, indicating a similar timeframe for the M5 introductions.
### New 12.9-inch MacBook
For several years, analysts have urged Apple to introduce a budget-friendly MacBook to better compete with Chromebooks and more economical PCs. In early 2026, this may finally come to pass. Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch a 12.9-inch MacBook equipped with an iPhone-class A18 Pro chip and available in a range of vibrant colors. The anticipated price is speculated to be $599 or $699, with deliveries expected by mid-Q1 2026, making a late January reveal very plausible.
### iPad with A18 chip
Earlier this year, Apple’s entry-level iPad underwent a spec improvement with an A16 Bionic chip. Early in 2026, the next iPad is expected to debut featuring an A18 chip that will support Apple Intelligence. Not much else is known about the new iPad, but it is expected to maintain the same design, with changes mainly internal.
### iPhone 17e
Apple has another iPhone 17 variant in development, anticipated to launch very early in 2026. This February, Apple introduced a new addition to the iPhone lineup branded as iPhone 16e. Speculation indicates that Apple aims to refresh the ‘e’ model each year. The iPhone 17e will incorporate the same A19 chip as the iPhone 17 and will include the new Center Stage front camera. It’s also rumored to showcase design updates, featuring the Dynamic Island in place of a notch and slimmer bezels. Similar to the iPhone 16e, Apple’s new budget model will likely retail at $599 and feature only a single rear camera.
### Wildcards: M5 MacBook Air, M4 iPad Air, new Mac displays
The four products mentioned above have all been speculated for release very early in 2026. However, several others could also debut in the same timeframe, including the M5 MacBook Air, M4 iPad Air, and new Mac displays. These items are expected to launch between winter and spring, aligning with the previously mentioned releases. For instance, the iPad Air and base iPad both debuted simultaneously earlier this year, and the new Mac displays might arrive alongside the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro variants.
Which early 2026 Apple products are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments.
