What we're expecting at Apple's March event: iPhone 17e, MacBook M5, new iPads, and more
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Apple has confirmed a March 4 event.
- Multiple Macs and iPad models are expected.
- Rumors also point to a possible iPhone 17e.
Apple last week sent out invitations to an event scheduled for March 4 at 9 a.m. in New York. The invitations featured a layered‑glass Apple logo front and center, reminiscent of older Mac branding and Apple’s Liquid Retina display on iOS.
What to expect
Rumors about what Apple plans to announce this spring have been swirling for months. If past years are any indication, you can expect a new iPad and MacBook, and possibly an iPhone 17e.
New MacBook, Air, and Pro
According to the rumor mill, Apple is working on:
- A budget‑friendly MacBook.
- A new MacBook Air with the M5 chip.
- MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max.
Also: MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air: We tested both models, and here’s which one to buy in 2026
New 12th‑gen iPad and iPad Air
Apple is rumored to release:
- An A18‑based base‑model iPad (the 12th‑generation iPad).
- An iPad Air equipped with the M4 chip.
This would bring Apple Intelligence to the base‑model tablet, extending AI features to a broader audience and making the most affordable iPad more capable.
Also: I tested every iPad model that Apple currently sells – here’s my advice for Pro users in 2026
New iPhone 17e
The iPhone 17e may feature:
- A binned version of the A19 chip.
- An upgraded 18 MP front camera.
- MagSafe support.
- 256 GB of storage, starting at $599.
It could also include the Dynamic Island. While some reports suggest a later launch in 2026, rumors have narrowed the release window to early 2026.
Also: 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 compelling for an in‑person event, a production‑ready touchscreen MacBook is not expected until at least late 2026, if at all.