Everything Apple may unveil at its March event: iPhone 17e, MacBook M5, new iPads, more

Published: (February 26, 2026 at 09:50 AM EST)
3 min read
Source: ZDNet

Source: ZDNet

ZDNET’s key takeaways

  • Apple’s CEO Tim Cook has confirmed new products coming starting March 2.
  • Multiple Macs and iPad models are expected.
  • Rumors also point to a possible iPhone 17e.

While rumors have long been swirling that Apple is working on a spring iPad and Mac launch, there is finally a confirmation and, more importantly, a date to go along with them. Apple last week sent out invitations to an event scheduled for March 4 at 9 a.m. in New York.

Tim Cook also confirmed on social media that new products will be announced starting on Monday, March 2.

Samsung Unpacked 2026 recap: All the news on Galaxy S26 Ultra, Privacy Display, Buds 4 Pro

What to expect

Rumors about what Apple plans to announce this spring have been swirling for months, and if past years are any indication, you can expect a new iPad and MacBook, and possibly an iPhone 17e.

1. More powerful MacBooks (and a cheaper one)

M5 MacBook Pro

According to the rumor mill, Apple is working on a new budget‑friendly MacBook, a new MacBook Air with M5, and MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max.

MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air: We tested both models, and here’s which one to buy in 2026

2. Studio Display with Mini LED?

Studio Display concept

Apple first launched the Studio Display in 2022, and it has been praised by consumers, creators, and professionals alike. A successor could feature a Mini LED panel beneath the glass, delivering brighter, higher‑contrast imagery. It would also need an updated chipset, as the existing A13 Bionic likely won’t suffice.

3. Refreshed iPad and iPad Air

iPad Air with keyboard case

Apple is rumored to release an A18‑based base‑model iPad (the 12th‑generation) and an iPad Air powered by M4.

I tested every iPad model that Apple currently sells – here’s my advice for Pro users in 2026

Putting the A18 Bionic chip in the base iPad would bring Apple Intelligence to the most affordable tablet in the lineup.

4. iPhone 17e gets a modernized look

iPhone 16e concept

The iPhone 17e may feature the Dynamic Island, a binned A19 chip, an upgraded 18 MP front camera, MagSafe support, and 256 GB of storage starting at $599.

I broke my 5‑year iPhone upgrade rule with the latest model – here’s why I’m not regretting it

What’s unlikely?

The biggest MacBook rumor— a touchscreen MacBook— is unlikely to appear at the March 4 announcement. While a touchscreen demo could be a compelling reason for an in‑person event, a production‑ready touchscreen MacBook is not expected until at least late 2026, if at all.

0 views
Back to Blog

Related posts

Read more »

Apple's Next Launch Starts Tomorrow

Overview Following a new AirTag in January, Apple is set to unveil its next new products of 2026 this week. Apple CEO Tim Cook teased that the company will hav...