As Apple gears up for 2026, the tech world is buzzing with anticipation for iOS 27, which is expected to officially launch that year. iOS 27 promises to bring a host of improvements and innovative features across iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch devices. But iOS 27 is just the tip of the iceberg — the real excitement will unfold at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026, where the company is expected to reveal a broader vision for the coming year.
What to Expect at Apple’s 2026 WWDC
Mark Gurman, a veteran Bloomberg journalist, recently highlighted in his latest Power On newsletter that Apple is entering one of its most pivotal years in recent history. Based on his insights and multiple reports, we can break down Apple’s plans for 2026 into four major areas.
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1. iOS 27 and Apple Intelligence
The software side will be just as exciting. Apple is expected to unveil iOS 27, macOS 27, and watchOS 27 at WWDC 2026, with a strong emphasis on Apple Intelligence and overall AI strategy.
One of the most anticipated upgrades is Siri, which is reportedly moving to leverage the Google Gemini model. This will allow Siri to perform AI-driven tasks and even support network-based AI searches. While this signals a significant technological leap, the user acceptance and function completeness of these new AI capabilities remain to be seen.
2. iPhone Fold and iPhone 17e
Apple is also reportedly making progress in foldable smartphone technology. The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro is expected to abandon traditional cellular modems (“baseband chips”) in favor of Apple’s own C2 chip. This marks a major step toward fully self-reliant Apple hardware architecture and could provide significant performance and efficiency gains in foldable iPhone devices.
And iPhone 17e is Continuing the evolution of the iPhone lineup with expected design refinements and improved efficiency.
3. Expect Apple 2026 Mac Lineup
Apple’s 2026 hardware roadmap is shaping up to be ambitious. Early in the year, the company plans to release multiple new devices, including:
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Entry-level iPad with A18 chip: Aimed at education and casual users, offering better performance and battery life.
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iPad Air with M4 chip: Targeting professionals and students who need high performance in a slim form factor.
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MacBook Air with M5 chip: Likely featuring improved battery efficiency and faster processing power.
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MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips: Alongside a new display, optimized for creative professionals.
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New Apple displays: Designed to pair seamlessly with the latest MacBook Pro models.
Towards the end of 2026, Apple is expected to refresh the MacBook Pro with M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, a thinner body, and an iPhone-style OLED touch bar. The M5 Mac mini and M5 Mac Studio will also be upgraded, solidifying Apple’s desktop and workstation lineup.
4. Smart Home Strategy
Apple’s smart home ecosystem is also set for a significant expansion. The company is reportedly planning its first smart display, acting as a central hub for home control. This display will come in both speaker-based and wall-mounted versions, providing users with flexible setup options.
Alongside this, Apple will enhance Siri, their voice assistant, as a key component of a broader smart home strategy. The updated Siri will support future integration with smart home cameras and security systems, laying the foundation for a fully connected Apple smart home ecosystem.
Conclusion
In summary, 2026 is shaping up to be a transformative year for Apple. From the anticipated launch of iOS 27 to bold moves in hardware, AI, and smart home strategy, Apple seems determined to expand both its software and hardware ecosystems.
