Apple has sent out invitations for its first major launch event of the year. A “Special Apple Experience” is to take place in New York on March 4 at 3 p.m. German time. As usual, there are no official details about the products to be presented, but industry reports are talking about up to eight new devices – from the iPhone 17e and an affordable MacBook to updated iPads and Macs.
- Launch event on March 4 in New York
- Up to eight new Apple products are expected
- Focus on iPhone 17e with A19 chip and Dynamic Island
- New budget MacBook under 800 euros under discussion
Apple launch event: iPhone 17e and new Macs in focus
At the center of the speculation is the possible iPhone 17e. The model is expected to look similar to the iPhone 16e, but with a modern Dynamic Island instead of the classic notch. A new ARM-based A19 chip, support for MagSafe accessories and an improved 18-megapixel front camera with a square sensor are also expected. The price of the device is expected to remain around 699 euros, making it a comparatively affordable entry-level model in the iPhone portfolio.
There are also growing indications of a new budget MacBook with a 12.9-inch display, aluminum housing and A18 Pro chip. The entry-level price is expected to be below 800 euros, with the basic configuration apparently including 8 GB of RAM. This would allow Apple to address a new segment between the iPad and MacBook Air and at the same time lower the entry barrier to the macOS ecosystem.
Updates could also follow in the Pro segment. Variants with M5 Pro and M5 Max are expected for the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro, while the MacBook Air could receive an upgrade to the M5 chip. These steps would be plausible, as Apple usually develops its in-house silicon generations on an annual basis.
Displays, iPads and possible surprises
In addition to smartphones and notebooks, the focus is also shifting to displays and tablets. According to rumors, a new next-generation Studio Display will be released with a 27-inch 5K panel, mini LED backlighting and a refresh rate of 90 Hz or even 120 Hz. Such a specification would clearly position the display in the premium segment and make it particularly attractive for creative professionals.
In the tablet sector, an entry-level iPad with an A18 chip and an iPad Air with an M4 processor are expected. These upgrades appear consistent with Apple’s strategy of gradually integrating more powerful chips into broader product lines. At the same time, this would further sharpen the distinction between the standard iPad, Air and Pro.
Another potential highlight is a smart home display, which has been discussed for some time. However, a launch is considered uncertain, as the further developed AI version of Siri is apparently not yet ready for the market. Against this backdrop, a postponement would be conceivable in order to integrate software and hardware more closely – an approach that Apple has pursued several times in the past.
Conclusion on the Apple launch event in March
The first Apple launch event in 2026 promises a broad product range with up to eight new products. The iPhone 17e and a possible budget MacBook in particular could attract a lot of attention. Official confirmations are still pending, but the rumors seem plausible and strategically coherent in many respects. Prices and availability are likely to be announced at the event on March 4.
