For months, rumours of Apple planning to launch new hardware in the first quarter of 2026 have been circulating. Now, the company has officially confirmed its first event of the year, scheduled for March 4. Apple is calling it a “Special Apple Experience”, with in person gatherings planned in New York, London and Shanghai. Interestingly, there is no confirmation of a global livestream yet, which hints at a more hands on showcase rather than a traditional keynote. From the much anticipated iPhone 17e to a possible low cost MacBook and refreshed iPads, let’s take a look at what all we can expect.
SurveyAlso read: Apple’s new MacBook Pro laptops get revised launch timelines: All details
iPhone 17e could bring flagship features at a lower price
iPhone 17e is expected to headline the March 4 event. The device will succeed the iPhone 16e and continue Apple’s strategy of offering a more affordable iPhone without positioning it as a stripped down product. Early leaks suggest the phone could feature a 6.1 inch OLED display and may finally adopt the Dynamic Island design, replacing the older notch style. If that happens, it would mark a major design shift for Apple’s entry tier lineup.
Under the hood, the iPhone 17e is tipped to run on the new A19 chip. This would bring improved performance and better support for on device AI features. MagSafe support is also expected to return, along with faster wireless charging. Some reports hint at an upgraded front camera as well, making the device more appealing to users who rely heavily on video calls and social media content creation.
The previous e series model performed well in key markets, and Apple is likely hoping to build on that momentum. Pricing will play a crucial role, especially in markets like India where competition in the premium mid range segment is intense. If Apple manages to keep the price aggressive while adding premium features, the iPhone 17e could become a strong volume driver for 2026.
Budget MacBook, iPads and what else to expect
MacBook updates are also widely expected at the event. One of the biggest talking points is a new entry level MacBook that could run on an iPhone class A series processor instead of the usual M series chip. Reports suggest this model may feature a slightly smaller display, an aluminium body and multiple colour options. If the budget MacBook is indeed launched, it could be a product that appeals to students and first time buyers.
Alongside this, Apple is also expected to refresh the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with next generation M5 chips. These updates are expected to focus on performance improvements rather than major design changes. A new Mac Studio and updated displays are also being discussed, though details remain limited.
On the tablet front, refreshed versions of the standard iPad and iPad Air are likely. Chip upgrades are expected, which could improve performance and extend software support cycles.
With multiple product categories possibly getting updates at once, the March 4 event could set the tone for Apple’s hardware roadmap in 2026.
Also read: Apple’s budget MacBook could cost less than Rs 60,000, says report
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Divyanshi Sharma
Divyanshi Sharma is a media and communications professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With a strong background in tech journalism, she has covered everything from the latest gadgets to gaming trends and brings a sharp editorial lens to every story. She holds a master’s diploma in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Her love for writing and gaming began early—often skipping classes to try out the latest titles—which naturally evolved into a career at the intersection of technology and storytelling. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring virtual worlds on her console or PC, or testing out a new laptop she managed to get her hands on. View Full Profile
