Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. Apple has announced its first major event of 2026, where it is expected to introduce its most affordable MacBook yet, along with a new budget iPhone 17e and refreshed iPad models. The event will begin on March 4 at around 7:30 pm IST. While the main showcase will take place in New York, parallel media interactions are scheduled in London and Shanghai, signalling a broader global push for its upcoming devices.
Cheapest MacBook with A-series chip
Reports suggest Apple may, for the first time, replace its M-series processor in a MacBook with an A-series chip used in iPhones. The move is aimed at making the laptop more affordable and energy efficient, particularly for students and office users.
Key expectations include:
- Price likely between Rs 70,000 and Rs 80,000
- Powered by an A-series chip instead of M-series
- Designed for light productivity and daily tasks
- Focus on longer battery life
Invitation cards for the New York event feature the Apple logo in yellow, green and blue shades. This has led to speculation that the new MacBook may be offered in multiple bright colours, similar to some of the company’s earlier consumer-focused models.
iPhone 17e to expand budget lineup
Apple is also expected to strengthen its budget smartphone segment with the launch of the iPhone 17e. The device is likely to feature the same A19 chip expected in the standard iPhone 17, promising improved speed over older models.
Expected features:
- 6.1-inch OLED display
- Possible introduction of MagSafe charging support in this series
- Starting price in India around Rs 60,000
If confirmed, this would mark the first time MagSafe technology appears in Apple’s more affordable iPhone line. The strategy appears to balance premium features with competitive pricing in key markets like India.
New iPads and updated studio display
For tablet users, Apple may unveil an upgraded iPad Air powered by the new M4 chip. In addition, the 12th-generation base model iPad could make its debut, possibly featuring support for Apple Intelligence, the company’s artificial intelligence suite.
The long-awaited new version of Studio Display may also be introduced. Industry watchers believe Apple wants to refresh its ecosystem devices alongside core products to drive integrated usage across Mac, iPhone and iPad.
Apple Intelligence and smarter Siri
Another highlight of the event could be a preview of an upgraded Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. The company is positioning this AI framework as a major step forward in making devices more intuitive and responsive.
What to expect from Apple Intelligence:
- Smarter and context-aware Siri responses
- Better integration across iPhone and Mac
- Improved user assistance for everyday tasks
The company has branded this year’s showcase as an “experience” rather than a conventional event. Attendees in New York, London and Shanghai are expected to get hands-on access to the new gadgets immediately after the presentation.
Knowledge box
- Apple opened its first retail store in New York’s Fifth Avenue, now among the world’s most recognised tech stores.
- Using an A-series chip in a laptop can improve battery life but may not match the heavy performance of M-series chips for tasks like 4K video editing.
With affordability, artificial intelligence and colourful design at the centre of its strategy, Apple appears ready to target a wider consumer base in 2026 while strengthening its global presence.
