Apple’s 2026 roadmap is shaping up to be one of the most disruptive in the company’s history. If the current rumors from January 2026 hold true, we are looking at a fundamental shift in how Apple releases products, including the death of the "annual" iPhone cycle for all models.
Here is the latest news and rumors surrounding Apple’s upcoming lineup.
1. The "iPhone Fold" is Finally Real
After years of speculation, supply chain leaks from CES 2026 suggest that Apple’s first foldable—tentatively called the iPhone Fold—is set for a September 2026 debut.
Design: A "book-style" fold similar to the Galaxy Z Fold but significantly thinner (approx. 4.5mm unfolded).
Displays: A 5.3-inch outer display and a massive 7.7-inch inner display.
Innovation: Rumors point to a "crease-free" display technology that has finally met Apple's strict quality standards.
Price: Expect a premium tag, likely starting between $2,000 and $2,500.
2. The Staggered iPhone Launch: No "iPhone 18"?
In a shocking twist, reports indicate Apple is splitting its iPhone release cycle. While the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will likely launch in Fall 2026 with the new 2nm A20 chip, the standard iPhone 18 may be delayed until Spring 2027.
Instead, the "middle of the year" slot will be filled by the iPhone 17e—a new budget-friendly model featuring the Dynamic Island and Apple's first in-house 5G modem.
3. The $599 MacBook?
Apple is reportedly ready to go after the education market currently dominated by Chromebooks.
The "MacBook SE": A rumored 12.9-inch laptop running an A18 Pro chip (iPhone-class) instead of an M-series chip.
Target Price: Analysts predict a starting price of $599, making it the most affordable Mac in history.
4. Entering the "Smart Home" War: The HomePad
The most significant "new category" for 2026 is the HomePad. This is essentially an iPad-HomePod hybrid designed to be the command center for your house.
Features: A 7-inch square touchscreen, a built-in camera for FaceTime, and the debut of homeOS.
AI Integration: It will be the primary vessel for Siri 2.0 (LLM-based), allowing for complex home automation through natural conversation.
Rumored Apple 2026 Release Calendar
Estimated Timing | Product | Key Feature |
Spring 2026 | iPhone 17e | Apple’s first in-house 5G modem |
Spring 2026 | iPad mini (OLED) | First mini with an OLED screen |
Spring 2026 | M5 MacBook Pro | 25% faster CPU via 2nm process |
Fall 2026 | iPhone Fold | Book-style foldable design |
Fall 2026 | iPhone 18 Pro | A20 Chip (2nm technology) |
Late 2026 | Apple Glasses | AR-focused "Light" glasses |
