What Apple could launch in 2026: Foldable iPhone, cheaper MacBook and more

Apple is gearing up for a transformative year in 2026, with plans to introduce an array of innovative products that could significantly impact its ecosystem. While 2025 has been dedicated to enhancing existing product lines with new designs and powerful silicon, the upcoming year promises groundbreaking advancements across various categories. According to insights from 9To5Mac, one of the key highlights is a new external display, which will be the first major update to the Studio Display since 2022. Although specifics remain scarce, this new model is anticipated to maintain the current 27-inch size while integrating mini LED technology for enhanced brightness and contrast. Moreover, it is expected to feature a more robust internal chip, likely the A19 Pro, replacing the older A13 Bionic utilized in the current iteration. In addition to the display, Apple is reportedly set to unveil its first significant redesign of the MacBook Pro since 2021. The 2026 model is rumored to be slimmer and lighter, finally bringing OLED displays into the MacBook lineup. Speculations also include touch input support and optional 5G connectivity, which would represent a major evolution in Apple’s approach to professional laptops. This device is likely to debut the M6 chip, potentially marking the company's first processor developed on a 2-nanometer process. After much anticipation, Apple may finally make its entry into the foldable smartphone market in 2026. The device is expected to adopt a book-style format, featuring a 7.8-inch internal display alongside a 5.5-inch external screen. Reports indicate that Apple is concentrating on minimizing or completely eliminating the display crease, a prevalent issue in existing foldable devices. Additionally, it may utilize Touch ID instead of Face ID and incorporate a durable titanium frame. Among the most awaited products is a dedicated smart home device, often referred to as HomePad. This new gadget is expected to include a 7-inch display and operate on a new OS designed specifically for home automation. It is said to leverage Apple’s advancements in artificial intelligence and an upgraded version of Siri, which might clarify the delay in its release. If Apple successfully navigates its AI hurdles, this home hub could debut in 2026, serving as a central controller for various smart home devices, similar to Google’s Nest Hub or Amazon’s Echo Show. Lastly, Apple is rumored to be developing a lower-cost MacBook aimed at positioning itself below the MacBook Air. This model is expected to utilize the A18 Pro chip instead of the M-series processors and feature a 13-inch display. If the pricing targets around $699 are achieved, it would become Apple’s most affordable laptop in years, potentially appealing to students and first-time Mac buyers with its playful color options.