Every New Apple Product Launched in 2026… so far

Here is what Apple has already announced in 2026:

• AirPods Max 2: Improved audio and the H2 chip. Find out more here: AirPods Max 2 guide.
• MacBook Neo: Apple’s brand new, low-cost Mac laptop. Find out more here: MacBook Neo guide.
• MacBook Air M5: Now with the M5 chip. Read about the 2026 MacBook Air here: MacBook Air M5 guide.
• MacBook Pro M5 Pro & M5 Max: A significant upgrades over the M4 series. Read: MacBook Pro M5 Pro & Max guide.
• Studio Display: Finally gets Thunderbolt 5 and a better webcam.
• Studio Display XDR: With mini-LED technology and ProMotion up to 120Hz.
• iPhone 17e: The new, entry-level, iPhone replaces the iPhone 16e. Read more here: iPhone 17e guide.
• iPad Air M4: The iPad Air now has an M4 chip. Read more here: iPad Air M4 guide.
• AirTag 2: Four years on Apple updated the AirTag, read our review here: AirTag 2nd gen review.

And… RIP Mac Pro: Apple has confirmed that it is discontinuing its tower workstation.

Read on to find out what new products to expect at Apple’s next event and throughout 2026.

Every New Apple Product Launching in 2026

In the sections below we’ve split the upcoming new products into categories including Mac, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, Home, AirPods, and some new product categories.

Apple Intelligence, Siri and AI

iOS 27 and macOS 27 Golden Gate, which introduce a massive overhaul to Siri and expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities.

The All-New Siri AI

The most significant update is the transformation of Siri into Siri AI, a conversational assistant powered by Apple Intelligence.

Key Siri AI features coming later this year include:

Onscreen Awareness: Siri will understand and interact with what is displayed on your screen. For example, if a friend texts you an address, you can ask Siri to save it to a contact without leaving the app.

Dedicated Siri App: A new standalone app will allow you to revisit previous conversations, pin important chats, and sync history across all Apple devices via iCloud.

App Actions: Siri will be able to perform tasks within apps using natural language, such as editing a recently sent message or adding a song to a specific playlist.

Visual Intelligence: On iPhone, a new Siri mode in the Camera app will allow users to point their phone at objects to ask questions or perform actions based on what they see. On Mac, users can select onscreen content to ask Siri questions about images or documents.

Voice Customization: Users can personalize Siri with more natural voices and adjust the pace and expressiveness of the speech. This feature requires a M3 Mac with 12GB RAM or newer, or iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone Air and newer.

Apple Intelligence Across Apps

Beyond Siri, Apple Intelligence is being integrated system-wide to automate tasks and enhance productivity. Apple Intelligence will play a larger role across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, smart home devices, and future product categories.

Major updates include:

Safari Productivity: The browser will automatically group tabs into topics, monitor pages for changes (like price drops) with a “Notify Me” feature, and even build custom extensions based on natural-language descriptions.

Smarter Photo Editing: New tools include Spatial Reframing to improve composition after a photo is taken, an Extend tool to fill in missing areas when straightening horizons, and an upgraded Clean Up tool for removing distractions.

Writing Tools and Communication: Mail and Messages will gain smarter replies that mimic a user’s writing style . System-wide Writing Tools will generate text from scratch, rewrite drafts, and adapt tone to match specific contacts.

Image Playground: This tool has been revamped with better language models to create more natural-looking photorealistic images. It also allows users to create custom wallpapers on iOS 27.

Intelligent Automation: The Shortcuts app will feature a “Describe a Shortcut” ability, allowing users to create complex automations simply by explaining what they want in plain English.

What new iPhones are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Foundry

Based on current industry analysis and supply chain information, Apple has some significant changes planned for the iPhone in 2026, with updates centered around the iPhone 18 series, the introduction of a foldable iPhone, and the release of iOS 27.

iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max

• September 2026 update expected

The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to launch in September 2026. The iPhone 18 Pro is rumored to be the first to use Apple’s own C1 modem instead of Qualcomm’s. The base model may see a RAM increase to 12GB to better support on-device AI functions. A major redesign is expected, which could include under-display Face ID, a completely hidden notch and the front camera could move to the upper-left corner of the display. Read about the iPhone 18 Pro here: iPhone 18 Pro rumors.

Foldable iPhone

• September 2026 introduction possible

This is a wild card! After years of rumors, Apple’s first foldable phone, potentially named the iPhone Fold, is projected to debut in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. It is expected to be a book-style foldable with a 7.8-inch inner display. Read more here: Apple’s folding iPhone rumors.

iPhone 18

• Spring 2027 launch possible

Apple could delay the iPhone 18 and release that handset alongside the iPhone 18e in the spring of 2027, according to some reports.

What new iPads are coming in 2026 (and should you wait)?

Britta O’Boyle

Don’t expect major redesigns this year. Instead, Apple is likely to focus on faster chips and other internal upgrades. That said, both the iPad and iPad mini are due for an update – particularly the entry-level iPad, which currently lacks support for Apple Intelligence. Here’s what we expect Apple to announce:

iPad mini

• Late 2026 update possible

The current iPad mini (A17 Pro) was released in October 2024, and Apple’s update cycle for this model is generally infrequent. Based on current reports and analysis, the next significant update to the iPad mini is not expected until mid-to-late 2026 at the earliest, with some speculation pointing toward 2027.

One rumored upgrade for the 2026 iPad mini is the transition to an OLED display, which could reduce manufacturing costs and improve battery life. There is also the possibility of a slightly larger screen, with a move from the current 8.3- to 8.7-inches suggested. There is also speculation that a future foldable Apple device could potentially replace the iPad mini line entirely, though this remains uncertain.

Internal code leaks suggest the future iPad mini could be upgraded to an A19 Pro chip, which would provide a significant performance boost over the current A17 Pro. A A18 Pro chip upgrade is also possible. Read our round up of iPad mini rumors.

iPad

• Late 2026 update possible

When the standard iPad was updated in March 11, 2025, the biggest disappointment was that it featured a A16 chip and therefore didn’t support Apple Intelligence. Apple looks set to rectify that in 2026 with an upgrade to the A18 or A19 chip, with the latter offering 50% better performance. The release timeline for an iPad with an A18 or A19 chip is anticipated for sometime in 2026, in fact, Apple code suggest the company may be planning an update sooner-rather-than-later.

Read more about the 2026 iPad in our rumor round up.

Which Macs are worth waiting for in 2026?

2026 is expected to be a significant year for the Mac, with Apple’s first touchscreen Mac rumored as part of a MacBook Pro redesign. March 3 saw the launch of the M5 MacBook Air and M5 Pro/M5 Max MacBook Pro and March 4 saw Apple introduce the a new entry-level laptop – the $599 MacBook Neo.

Updates to the Mac Studio and Mac mini are expected in 2026. These Macs have become popular for running AI models locally; however, global RAM shortages – driven by AI companies purchasing large amounts of memory for data centres – are having a knock-on effect on availability. Current models are constrained and, in some cases, unavailable, while the release of new models may also be delayed due to ongoing DRAM supply shortages.

One Mac that won’t be getting an update is the long-neglected Mac Pro. Apple has confirmed that the Mac Pro will be discontinued in favor of the Mac Studio.

Mac mini

• Fall 2026 update expected

Simon Jary / Foundry

The next Mac mini is expected to feature Apple’s M5 and M5 Pro chips. While the update was originally anticipated earlier in 2026, current reports suggest the launch has been delayed, potentially due to ongoing global RAM shortages.

As for new features, expectations include improved AI and graphics performance, faster SSDs, higher base storage configurations, and possible price increases. We don’t expect any major design changes, however. The current Mac mini received a significant redesign in October 2024, shrinking the chassis to just 5 by 5 inches. For more details, see our Mac mini M5 rumors guide.

Mac Studio

• Fall 2026 update expected

The current Mac Studio comes in two configurations: one with the M4 Max and one with the M3 Ultra. The M3 Ultra is faster than the M4 Max, but how much more powerful would an M4 Ultra – or even an M5 Ultra – be? Hopefully, we won’t have to wait long to find out.

Apple is expected to release a new Mac Studio with an M5-series chip in 2026. The launch had been anticipated for WWDC, but now appears to have been pushed further into the future, possibly due to global RAM shortages. Read more here: M5 Mac Studio rumors.

iMac

• Possible 2026 update

The current M4 iMac was released in October 2024, so an M5 update might seems timely and could be released alongside other potential M5 Mac updates.

The current iMac design was introduced in 2021 and is not expected to change soon. It is still considered fresh, and its components are not outdated. However, there are calls for Apple to introduce a larger screened iMac, something that has been missed since Apple discontinued the 27-inch model. Many feel that the 24-inch screen is too small. Read about the larger iMac rumors.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro M6

• Possible late 2026 introduction

Foundry

There are rumors that the M6 MacBook Pro will get a redesign including a thinner body and a notch-free OLED touchscreen, read the rumors about the M6 MacBook Pro with a touch screen.

Upcoming Apple Watches in 2026

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple updated all the Apple Watches in September 2025. Launching the Apple Watch Series 11 a new Apple Watch Ultra and a new Apple Watch SE. In 2026 the Apple Watch Series 12 and a new Apple Watch Ultra 4 are expected.

With the Apple Watch rather than hardware changes the real interest tends to be the health and fitness related features. The following capabilities are expected in future iterations:

• Non-invasive blood glucose monitoring: This has been a long-rumored feature for the Apple Watch, but it is still considered to be a few years away with the technology unlikely to be ready for a 2026 release.
• AI-Powered Health and Fitness Coach: Apple has long been rumored to be working on a sophisticated AI coach. Recent reports from early 2026 suggest this project was “scaled back” to allow individual AI-driven features to ship sooner rather than waiting for a complete overhaul.
• Health+ Service Overhaul: There are ongoing rumors regarding a new service tier called “Health+” that would expand upon Fitness+. This service might integrate new AI-powered health features into a single subscription, potentially bundled with hardware purchases.
• Daily Readiness and Stress Tracking: Unlike competitors such as the Oura Ring 4 or Garmin, the Apple Watch currently lacks a “daily readiness” score or native stress tracking. Experts suggest these are obvious areas for future software or hardware updates.

Other new features could include Touch ID integration and microLED displays reaching 4,000 nits brightness. A thinner case, magnetic bands, and enhanced AI capabilities could also be on the cards.

Apple Watch Ultra 4

• September 2026 update possible

Rumors indicate that the Ultra 4 could have a fingerprint scanner. There may be new sensors coming, but details are sparse. 

Apple Watch Series 12

• September 2026 update likely

A chip update is likely, but beyond that little is known.

Upcoming Apple Home devices

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

Apple is expected to significantly expand its smart home ecosystem in 2026 with four major product categories including new devices beyond traditional Apple TV and HomePods.

Key rumored products include a HomeKit security camera with audio monitoring, a HomePad smart hub with 7-inch touchscreen, updated HomePod mini 2, and next-generation Apple TV 4K with A17 Pro chip.

This strategic push aims to help Apple catch up with competitors like Amazon and Google in the smart home market.

We expect Apple’s major push into the smart home market to start around March or April 2026. This initiative will be heavily reliant on a significantly improved Siri, powered by a new large language model, reportedly based on Google’s Gemini AI.

New and updated products are said to include:

New Smart Hub

• Possible 2026 introduction

Multiple reports have suggested Apple will launch a smart home hub. Apple is said to be working on a number of HomeHub related products including a device said to mount a camera on a robot arm that can follow you around!

New Smart Display

• Possible 2026 introduction

Also rumored is an iPad like smart display that allow you to control your home devices via HomeOS software. This may come with both a speaker base and a wall mount.

HomePod Touch

• Possible 2026 introduction

A new HomePod smart speaker with a screen is said to be coming. Read more here: New HomePod rumors.

HomePod mini 2

• Probable 2026 introduction

Foundry

A new HomePod mini is also said to be on the way.

Apple TV

• Probable 2026 update

Apple TV leaks indicate a rumoured Apple TV is on Apple’s roadmap and that the update will bring Apple Intelligence to the set top box.

Upcoming Vision devices, AR and spatial computing

Apple Smart Glasses

• Possible 2026 introduction, 2027 launch

Unlike the bulky Vision Pro headset, the upcoming smart glasses from Apple are expected to follow a form factor similar to the Ray-Ban Meta glasses. This will be Apple’s first product built specifically for “Visual Intelligence.” It will likely handle tasks such as live translations, music playback, phone calls, and turn-by-turn directions. Apple could provide a first glimpse or “preview” of the glasses by the end of 2026.

Vision Pro

• Possible 2027 update

Prior to 2026, Apple’s spatial computing strategy has focused on the high-end market, but reports indicate a more affordable version of the headset is in development. Apple has reportedly paused work on a successor to the high-end Vision Pro and will instead release a cheaper Vision Pro.

What’s New in iOS 27 at a Glance

• Siri AI: Apple’s new Siri AI combines personal context, onscreen awareness and web knowledge to deliver more natural conversations, richer answers, app actions and cross-device chat history.
• Apple Intelligence across apps: Apple Intelligence expands across Safari, Photos, Messages, Mail, Calendar, Home and Shortcuts, adding smarter suggestions, automation, image generation and context-aware assistance.
• Smarter Photos editing: Photos gains Spatial Reframing, Extend and an upgraded Clean Up tool, allowing users to improve composition, expand images and remove distractions more naturally.
• Child safety and parental controls: New parental controls include Ask to Browse, Time Allowances, app schedules and enhanced Communication Safety tools designed to give parents more control.
• Safari and productivity upgrades: Safari can organise tabs, monitor webpages and build extensions from descriptions, while Passwords, Calendar and Shortcuts gain powerful new AI-powered capabilities.

Siri AI in iOS 27

Apple

Siri AI is the new name for Apple’s Apple Intelligence-powered assistant. Apple says Siri AI is more personal and conversational than the current version of Siri, with the ability to answer open-ended questions, understand personal context from messages, emails, photos and notes, recognise what’s on screen and draw on information from the web to provide up-to-date answers.

Siri AI will also gain a dedicated app that lets users revisit previous conversations, pin important chats and continue conversations across all Apple devices via iCloud syncing. Apple says all cloud processing is designed with privacy and security in mind.

There will also be a new, more natural and expressive Siri voice, alongside controls that allow users to adjust pace and expressiveness to their preferences. The voice customisation feature will require iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, or newer.

New Siri features include:

Personal context and app actions: Siri AI will be able to draw on personal context to help users find information stored across their devices, including old photos, emails, notes and messages. Apple says Siri AI will also be capable of taking actions within apps such as Messages, Music and Reminders, allowing users to do things like edit a recently sent message or add a song to a playlist using natural language.

Onscreen and visual intelligence: On iPhone, Siri AI’s capabilities will extend to the Camera app through a new Siri mode. Users will be able to show Siri what they see through the camera and ask questions or perform actions based on what’s in front of them.

Siri voice, dictation and writing: Apple says Siri AI will feature more natural and expressive voices, with compatible devices offering controls to adjust pace and expressiveness. Dictation will also get a major upgrade, with improved speech recognition, automatic punctuation, capitalisation and formatting, allowing users to speak more naturally while Siri converts their words into text.

Apple Intelligence across apps

As well as Siri AI, the enhanced Apple Intelligence will also power new AI-powered features in Apple’s core apps throughout iOS 27. Safari will organise tabs into topics, monitor webpages for changes and even build extensions from natural-language descriptions. Photos is set to gain a new Spatial Reframing edit tools including and an upgraded Clean Up feature. Messages, Mail and Calendar will be able to understand context, suggest actions and create events from simple descriptions.

New Apple Intelligence features coming in iOS 27 include:

Safari: Apple says Safari will automatically group tabs into topics to make related pages easier to find. Safari will also be able to monitor webpages with a Notify Me feature being alerting users to changes such as price drops or restocks. A Describe an Extension feature lets users create custom Safari extensions by describing what they want.

Apple

Photos: Apple says the the Photos app in iOS 27 will allow users to improve compositions, expand images, straighten horizons and remove larger distractions while preserving the original scene where possible. The Photos app will gain Spatial Reframing, a tool that can improve composition after a photo is taken. An Extend option will fill missing areas when straightening a horizon or changing aspect ratio. And an improved Clean Up will more effectively remove elements from photos.

Apple

Phone: The Phone app will gain Call Context, which will surface relevant information when calling a business. For example, Call Context could surface a flight confirmation code from Mail when the user calls an airline. Apple stated this ability is based on who the user is calling, not what they are saying.

Image Playground: Image Playground will be able to create photorealistic images, according to Apple. Apple says users will be able to modify images by describing changes or by selecting objects to move or resize. Generated images will include a SynthID watermark to identify them as AI-generated.

Passwords: The Passwords app will alert users to weak, duplicated or compromised passwords and offer to update them automatically.

Shortcuts: The Shortcuts app will gain a new ability to ‘Describe a Shortcut’, so users can easily create automations by explaining what they want in natural language. Apple says Shortcuts will then assemble the necessary actions across apps.

Messages and Mail: Messages will be able to suggest useful actions based on conversation context, such as creating a reminder, making a note or finding relevant photos. Mail and Messages will gain smarter replies that can mimic a user’s writing style.

Calendar: In iOS 27 the Calendar app will be able to create or modify events based on a natural-language description. Apple says it will be able to identify contacts, locations and event details as users type.

Home: The Home app will gain Apple Intelligence features for supported HomeKit Secure Video cameras. Apple says it will be able to group related notifications, generate video descriptions and highlight noteworthy clips.

Maps: Flyover will offer sharper detail using aerial imagery and Visual Intelligence models, including improved rendering of architectural details and individual trees.

Podcasts: Video podcasts are to get an update that will make it easier to switch between watching and listening.

Performance and system changes in iOS 27

Alongside the headline AI features, Apple says iOS 27 will include a wide range of under-the-hood improvements designed to make iPhones faster and more responsive.

The company has updated core technologies including display performance, processing efficiency and wireless connectivity.

According to Apple, apps will launch faster in iOS 27, AirDrop and external drive transfers will be quicker, and photos will be added to users’ libraries more rapidly. Apple has also improved network performance and introduced a more powerful system-wide search index to help users find information more quickly.

The company says it has addressed dozens of common user frustrations across iOS, focusing on refinements that improve everyday performance and responsiveness throughout the operating system.

Design and interface changes in iOS 27

Apple

There are also improvements to the iPhone interface coming in iOS 27.

Liquid Glass refinements: Apple says Liquid Glass has been refined for better readability, more uniform refraction and improved contrast. A new slider lets users adjust the look from ultraclear to fully tinted, while updated icons, toolbars, sidebars and window shapes add polish.

Child safety and parental controls

Apple

There are lots of improvements coming to parental controls, including new time allowances for entertainments, games, and social media, and new schedule tools for different times of day or days of the week.

This includes new features like an expansion of the existing “ask to buy” feature for apps to websites. Before a child can view a new website, they’ll have to ask for permission.

Ask to Browse: Ask to Browse will expand the current Ask to Buy fetaure to the web. Apple says children will need to request permission before visiting new websites, and parents can review requests in Messages before approving.

Communication Safety: Communication Safety will continue to help protect children from viewing or sharing nudity in Messages, FaceTime and other apps. Apple says it will also intervene before children see gore or violent content in shared images and videos.

Time Allowances and schedules: Parents will be able to set Time Allowances across categories such as Entertainment, Games and Social Media. Recommendations are based on a child’s age combined with guidance from clinical and child development experts. Schedules let parents choose which apps are available at different times or on different days.

Redesigned Screen Time: Screen Time will get a redesigned interface with an at-a-glance view of average device usage and most-used apps. Apple says parents can quickly limit or extend access in the moment.

Child accounts and family safety: Apple says child accounts remain central to age-appropriate protections. Parents can manage app access, web access, communication permissions and Screen Time settings.

Apple says it is working with the American Academy of Pediatrics to adapt its Family Media Plan.

Accessibility changes coming in iOS 27

Accessibility features will be smarter and more intuitive in iOS 27:

• VoiceOver will get richer image descriptions and better understanding of onscreen content.
• Live Recognition will let users press the Action button to ask questions about their surroundings and receive detailed responses.
• Voice Control will become more intuitive, allowing users to describe onscreen buttons and controls rather than remembering exact labels or numbers.
• Accessibility Reader will be able to handle more complex source material and provide summaries and translation.

iOS 27 compatibility

Roman Loyola/IDG

According to Apple, iOS 27 will support iPhones back to iPhone 11, though some Apple Intelligence and Siri AI features will require newer Apple Intelligence-enabled devices.

There was an expectation that the iPhone 11 would miss out on iOS 27 after leaker ‘Instant Digital’, claimed in a Weibo post that the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max (launched in 2019) and the iPhone SE 2 (launched in 2020) would not be able to run iOS 27. Lucky for those iPhone users, that is not the case and the iPhone 11 gets coverage for a while longer.

However, the lifespan of the iPhone 11 is limited, as we explain in our guide to how long Apple supports iPhones, the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Max have already been relegated to the Vintage iPhone list by Apple.

That leaves us with a compatibility list that looks like this:

• iPhone 17, 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max (launched in 2025)
• iPhone Air (launched in 2025)
• iPhone 16e (launched in 2025)
• iPhone 16 / 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max (launched in 2024)
• iPhone 15 / 15 Plus and iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max (launched in 2023)
• iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max (launched in 2022)
• iPhone SE 3 (launched in 2022)
• iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max (launched in 2021)
• iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max (launched in 2020)
• iPhone SE 2 (launched in 20120)
• iPhone 11 / 11 mini / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max (launched in 2019)

The iPhone 15 and older will not be able to take advantage of any Apple Intelligence features, as is currently the case.

iOS 27 release date: When will Apple release iOS 27?

• First developer beta: June 8, 2026
• First public beta: July 2026
• Final version: September 2026

Apple showcased iOS 27 during its WWDC keynote on June 8, 2026.

The official version of iOS 27 will not be available to install on compatible iPhones until later in 2026. Apple usually releases the iOS update during the second week of September, so Monday, September 14, is our guess as to when iOS 27 becomes available to everyone.

You don’t have to wait until then though.

When will the macOS 27 beta be released?

Following the keynote the developer beta of iOS 27 was made available. Apple confirmed it will release the first public beta in July.

What’s New in macOS 27 Golden Gate at a Glance

Apple

• Siri AI: A completely redesigned Siri powered by Apple Intelligence that can understand personal context, answer questions from the web, and take actions across apps.
• Visual Intelligence on Mac: Ask questions about anything on your screen, including images, files and text, using a dedicated shortcut.
• Safari AI Tools: Automatically groups related tabs, monitors websites for changes such as price drops, and can even generate custom extensions from a description.
• Apple Intelligence across apps: Adds AI-powered features to Messages, Mail, Calendar, Photos and Shortcuts to help write, organise, edit and automate tasks.
• Child Safety Upgrades: Introduces Ask to Browse, Time Allowances, enhanced Communication Safety and redesigned parental controls to help keep children safe online.

Siri AI: Siri powered macOS 27 features

Foiundry

Apple’s biggest focus in macOS 27 Golden Gate is Siri AI, a completely redesigned version of Siri powered by Apple Intelligence. Rather than functioning as a simple voice assistant, Siri AI is designed to act as a conversational AI assistant that can answer questions, understand personal information, access web knowledge, and perform actions across apps and services.

At a glance: What’s new with Siri AI?

Conversational AI assistant: Siri AI will be far more capable than previous versions of Siri, according to Apple, allowing users to ask open-ended questions, brainstorm ideas, conduct research, and hold natural back-and-forth conversations rather than relying on simple voice commands.

Dedicated Siri app: macOS 27 will offer a standalone Siri app that stores conversations in one place and sync them across Apple devices through iCloud. For example, users could start a conversation on their Mac and continue it later on their iPhone or iPad.

Personal context awareness: Siri will be able to understand information stored across your messages, emails, notes, photos and files. Apple says Siri will be able to locate specific information, find content you’ve saved in the past, and surface relevant details based on your personal data.

Web-powered answers: Unlike previous versions of Siri, Siri AI will be able to access up-to-date information from the web to answer questions on virtually any topic. Apple says it will be able to help with research, interview preparation, learning new subjects and gathering information quickly.

App actions and automation: Siri AI will be able to take action across apps including Messages, Music, Reminders and more. Users will be able to edit messages, manage playlists, create reminders and perform other tasks using natural language rather than navigating menus manually.

Spotlight integration: Siri AI will be built directly into Spotlight Search on macOS. Users will be able to type questions into Spotlight, receive AI-generated answers, and launch Siri-powered searches without opening a separate app or switching to a web browser.

Visual Intelligence on Mac: For the first time, Visual Intelligence is coming to macOS. Users will be able to select content on screen and ask Siri questions about images, files, documents and text, allowing the assistant to understand and respond to onscreen content.

Integrated Writing Tools: Siri AI will generate text from scratch, rewrite drafts, summarise content and refine existing writing. Apple says it will even adapt its tone, wording and punctuation to match how users typically communicate with individual contacts.

Improved dictation: Apple says it will significantly upgrade systemwide dictation with better speech recognition. Dictation will automatically add punctuation, capitalisation and formatting while improving accuracy, making it easier to turn spoken words into polished text.

Custom Siri voices: Users will be able to personalise Siri by selecting a voice and adjusting its pace and expressiveness. Apple says this allows Siri to sound more natural and better suited to individual preferences, although the feature requires newer Apple silicon hardware.

Availability: Apple says Siri AI will enter beta later this year and initially support English. It requires Apple Intelligence-compatible hardware.

Apple Intelligence across macOS 27

As well as powering Siri, the enhanced Apple Intelligence will power some other systemwide features in macOS 27.

Systemwide Proofreading: Apple Intelligence will provide automatic proofreading and improved spelling and grammar suggestions throughout the operating system.

Intelligent File and Folder Naming: In macOS 27 names for files and folders will be automatically suggested based on their contents.

Privacy: Apple emphasised that the new AI architecture maintains privacy protections. Apple claims Apple Intelligence continues to use on-device processing whenever possible and relies on Private Cloud Compute when additional processing power is required. Personal data processed through Private Cloud Compute is not stored or made accessible to Apple, and the system remains open to independent verification by security researchers.

Safari features coming in macOS 27

Apple

Safari is set to gain several Apple Intelligence-powered features in macOS 27, including the ability to automatically organise tabs into topics, monitor webpages for changes such as price drops and restocks with Notify Me, and generate custom browser extensions from a text description.

Automatic Tab Topics: Safari will be able to automatically group related tabs into topics. Apple says that by continually organizing tabs as users browse, Safari will help keep research and projects organized.

Notify Me: Safari will be able to monitor web pages for changes. For example, users will be able to ask Safari to watch for product restocks, price changes, or other updates and receive notifications when those changes occur.

Describe an Extension: Users will be able to create custom Safari extensions simply by describing what they want.
Apple says Safari can generate the extension directly from a text description and add it to the toolbar.

Messages and Mail features coming in macOS 27

Messages and Mail are to gain deeper Apple Intelligence integration in macOS 27. For example, Mail and Messages are will offer smarter Smart Reply suggestions that can reflect a user’s personal writing style.

One-Tap Suggestions in Messages: Messages will suggest actions based on conversation context. Apple says users will be able to quickly create reminders, notes, or perform other tasks directly from a conversation.

Smarter Photo Suggestions: Messages will identify and surface relevant photos based on keywords, people, and locations mentioned in chats.

Personalized Smart Reply: Both Messages and Mail will be able to mimic a user’s writing style depending on the recipient for a ‘Smart Reply’.

More Relevant Search in Mail: Mail will introduce a new search ranking system designed to surface the most relevant results first.

Photos features coming in macOS 27

A new suite of AI-powered editing tools are coming to Photos in macOS 27 that should make it easier to transform and improve photos without needing advanced editing skills.

Spatial Reframing: It will be possible to intelligently reframe images, recomposing images after they’ve been taken.

Extend Tool: A new Extend tool will expand photos beyond their original boundaries.

Enhanced Clean Up: The updated Clean Up tool will be able to remove larger unwanted objects from images more effectively than it can presently.

Design and Interface Changes in macOS 27

Apple

macOS Golden Gate will feature several UI tweaks that address some of the criticisms of macOS 26’s Liquid Glass. For example, macOS 27 will offer improved readability and stronger contrast than Liquid Glass does currently.

Changes include:

• Improved readability with more refined Liquid Glass effects throughout macOS.
• Better contrast to make interface elements easier to distinguish.
• More consistent refraction effects across windows, menus and controls.
• Updated toolbars with a cleaner, more unified design.
• Edge-to-edge sidebars that extend fully to the edge of windows rather than appearing to float.
• Refreshed menu bar icons with a more polished appearance.
• Background bars behind window controls to make icon clusters stand out more clearly.
• More consistent rounded window corners throughout the operating system.
• Liquid Glass app icons that add greater depth and a more three-dimensional look.
• Customisable Liquid Glass appearance, allowing users to adjust the effect from ultra-clear to fully tinted

Performance Improvements in macOS 27

Apple says macOS 27 delivers performance improvements throughout the operating system, including:

• Faster AirDrop transfers
• Faster network file browsing
• Faster Safari start page loading

macOS 27 will also add support for higher-resolution ultrawide displays, including 5K at 120Hz. Display arrangements will also be remembered more reliably when reconnecting monitors.

macOS 27 Compatible Macs

Foundry

Apple confirmed that macOS 27 Golden Gate is compatible with:

• MacBook Neo (A18 Pro, 2026)
• MacBook Air (Apple silicon, 2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (Apple silicon, 2020 and later)
• iMac (Apple silicon, 2021 and later)
• Mac mini (Apple silicon, 2020 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (Apple silicon, 2023 and later)

All those Macs will be able to support Apple Intelligence, but some Siri AI features require M3 with at least 12GB of unified memory or later.

macOS 27 release date: When will macOS 27 be available?

• First developer beta: June 8, 2026
• First public beta: July 2026
• Final version: September 2026

Apple debut macOS 27 in a keynote at WWDC26. The official version of macOS 27 will not be available until later in 2026. In recent years, Apple has released macOS at the same time as iOS. The iOS release has been happening during the second week of September, so Monday, September 14, is our guess as to when macOS 27 becomes available to everyone.

When will the macOS 27 beta be released?

Apple

However, it isn’t necessary to wait until the fall to try out the new features in macOS 27. Apple released the first developer beta at WWDC. Apple confirmed it will release the first public beta in July.

The beta cycle includes several iterations as Apple refines the software. Here’s how you can participate in the beta program.

We have an Apple WWDC event blog if you want to read expert commentary and our immediate reactions and what the WWDC news means to you.

2026 Mac Studio M5 Release Date: Will there be a new Mac Studio?

• No WWDC release

For much of the past year, expectations have been that Apple would unveil a new Mac Studio powered by M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips at WWDC 2026. In January 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that Apple was targeting the first half of 2026 for the next-generation systems, making a WWDC debut seem plausible. The event is a natural venue for launching a workstation aimed at developers and creative professionals, and Apple previously used WWDC 2023 to introduce Mac Studio models powered by the M2 Max and M2 Ultra. However, there was no new Mac Studio at WWDC.

The failure of Apple to update the Mac Studio at WWDC was no surprise. More recent reports had indicated the launch may now slip to later in the year, with October 2026 increasingly viewed as the more likely timeframe.

The delay appears to be tied to ongoing supply constraints in the global DRAM market. Surging demand for AI infrastructure – particularly from hyperscalers operating large-scale data centres – has placed significant pressure on high-capacity memory supply.

According to Gurman, reporting in April 2026, “supply chain snags” are affecting production of Apple’s next-generation professional Macs, potentially pushing the Mac Studio launch into October 2026.

These constraints are already affecting the current Mac Studio lineup. In March 2026, Apple removed the 512GB unified memory upgrade option for the M3 Ultra Mac Studio and increased the price of the 256GB option by $400, likely reflecting rising DRAM costs.

As of May 2026, the 2025 Mac Studio can only be configured with 36GB, 64GB or 96GB of unified memory, with the former 128GB and 256GB upgrade options no longer available. Availability has also been impacted, with delivery estimates ranging from six to ten weeks depending on configuration.

2026 Mac Studio: Processor

• M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips expected

Apple

The Mac Studio ships with Apple’s M-series Max and Ultra chips. The 2025 Mac Studio launched with the expected M4 Max, but the highest-end configuration unexpectedly used an M3 Ultra rather than a newer M4 Ultra. While the M3 Ultra still outperforms the M4 Max in heavily multithreaded and graphics-intensive workloads, it is based on an older generation of Apple silicon.

Apple never publicly explained why an M4 Ultra was not released. Some industry analysts speculated that manufacturing complexity and yield issues at TSMC may have contributed to Apple skipping an Ultra-tier M4 chip. However, the most widely accepted explanation is architectural. Previous Ultra chips, including the M1 Ultra and M2 Ultra, were created by linking two Max-class dies together using Apple’s UltraFusion packaging technology. Reports suggest the M4 Max lacked the high-bandwidth die-to-die interconnect required for this approach, preventing Apple from combining two M4 Max dies into a single Ultra processor.

However, this situation is not expected to continue with the M5 generation. Apple’s M5 Max, built on an advanced 3nm process, introduces a revised architecture that allows multiple dies to function as a single SoC. This new “Fusion Architecture” is designed to improve scalability, memory bandwidth and AI performance and, crucially, should make future Ultra variants easier to produce.

Apple has also shifted its high-end desktop strategy away from the Mac Pro, which was discontinued in early 2026. With the Mac Studio now effectively serving as Apple’s flagship professional desktop, it has become the company’s primary platform for future Ultra-class chips.

As a result, the next Mac Studio is widely expected to feature both the M5 Max and M5 Ultra.

M5 Max

The M5 Max currently features:

• CPU: Up to an 18-core CPU optimized for professional multithreaded workloads.
• GPU: Up to a 40-core GPU with improved AI and graphics acceleration.
• Neural processing: Expanded machine-learning hardware integrated across the GPU and media engines.
• Memory bandwidth: Significantly higher bandwidth than the M4 generation, improving AI, 3D rendering and video-editing performance.

The Mac Studio version of the M5 Max is also expected to deliver higher sustained performance than the MacBook Pro thanks to its larger thermal envelope.

M5 Ultra

If Apple maintains its current scaling approach of combining two M5 Max dies into a single processor package, the M5 Ultra could offer:

• CPU: Up to 36 CPU cores.
• GPU: Up to 80 GPU cores.
• Unified memory: Support for significantly larger memory pools and much higher bandwidth than the M5 Max.

The M5 Ultra, offering the best desktop workstation performance, will be suited to GPU-intensive workflows such as 3D rendering, AI model development, scientific computing and advanced video production.

2026 Mac Studio: Other specs

Thomas Bergbold

• Bigger SSD expected as standard

The introduction of the M5 Max in the 2026 MacBook Pro lineup provides some insight as to what to expect from the next Mac Studio beyond raw processor performance.

Unified memory and bandwidth

Memory configuration is expected to become an increasingly important part of the next Mac Studio story due to ongoing DRAM supply constraints affecting the broader industry.

Current expectations suggest:

• M5 Max: To continue to start with 36GB of unified memory.
• M5 Ultra: To begin at 96GB of unified memory.

Apple may continue to cap maximum memory at 256GB on Ultra configurations, although availability could remain limited depending on supply conditions.

However, recent changes to the existing Mac Studio lineup indicate Apple may simplify or reduce high-end memory configurations. In May 2026, Apple removed some higher-capacity memory upgrade options from the M3 Ultra Mac Studio and increased pricing for remaining high-memory configurations, likely due to rising DRAM costs driven by AI server demand.

Bandwidth improvements are also expected. The M5 architecture already delivers significantly faster memory throughput than previous generations, and the Mac Studio variants should scale even further. Higher-end configurations could potentially exceed 600GB/s of memory bandwidth, greatly benefiting workloads involving large datasets, complex simulations and AI inference.

Storage

Storage configurations are also expected to shift upward.

Industry expectations increasingly point to Apple raising the baseline SSD capacity across the Mac Studio lineup:

• M5 Max: Expected to start with 1TB of storage rather than 512GB.
• M5 Ultra: May begin at 2TB instead of 1TB.

This would align the Mac Studio more closely with Apple’s positioning as a professional workstation system, while also offsetting growing application sizes and AI-related storage demands.

Maximum capacities are likely to remain unchanged:

• M5 Max: Up to 8TB.
• M5 Ultra: Up to 16TB.

The M5 generation is also expected to deliver faster SSD performance overall, particularly for large-file transfers and sustained professional workloads.

Connectivity

The next Mac Studio is expected to support Apple’s latest connectivity standards, including:

• Thunderbolt 5 with bandwidth up to 120Gbps in boosted modes.
• Wi-Fi 7 support.
• Bluetooth 6.
• Apple’s newer networking hardware for improved wireless efficiency and lower latency.

2026 Mac Studio: Design & Ports

• No major external redesign is currently expected.

Foundry

The Mac Studio was first introduced in 2022, and Apple is expected to retain the same overall design for the next generation. No credible reports have suggested a major redesign, and the company’s recent desktop hardware – including the M4 Mac mini – indicates Apple remains committed to its compact aluminium desktop aesthetic.

That design has proven particularly effective for professional workflows. Despite its relatively small footprint, the Mac Studio is built around a substantial cooling system that allows it to sustain demanding workloads such as AI inference, 3D rendering and high-resolution video editing without the excessive fan noise often associated with traditional workstations. This makes it especially well suited to sound-sensitive studio environments and rack-based deployments.

The Mac Studio also stands out for its extensive port selection, avoiding the heavy reliance on adapters common with many modern Apple devices. Front-facing ports and the SDXC card slot provide convenient access for photographers, videographers and developers frequently connecting storage devices and peripherals.

The port offerings are also expected to remain the same. The Mac Studio has:

• M5 Max: 2 front USB-C ports (supporting USB 3 at 10Gbps)
• M5 Ultra: 2 front Thunderbolt 5 ports
• Front SDXC Card slot
• Rear 3.5mm audio jack
• 4 rear Thunderbolt 5 ports
• 2 rear USB-A ports
• HDMI port
• 10Gb ethernet port

The Mac Studio is expected to continue supporting up to eight external displays. Thunderbolt 5 support provides up to 80Gbps bandwidth, or up to 120Gbps for display-heavy workloads, making the system particularly well suited to advanced production, AI and multi-monitor workflows.

2026 Mac Studio: Price

The Mac Studio currently starts at $1,999 / £2,099, but there are strong indications that Apple could raise prices when it updates its desktop lineup later this year due to supply chain pressures and rising component costs.

One sign that the Mac Studio’s price could increase is Apple’s recent move to raise the entry cost of its high-end Macs. In March 2026, Apple removed lower-capacity storage tiers from the MacBook Pro lineup, pushing the starting price of the M5 Max model to $3,599 because it now ships with a 2TB SSD by default.

If Apple follows the same strategy with the Mac Studio, it may raise the base price while simultaneously increasing the starting RAM and storage configurations to soften the perception of the price increase.

For example, if Apple increases the entry-level SSD from 512GB to 1TB – a likely change – the base price could rise by roughly $200 / £200, although the U.K. increase may be smaller to keep regional pricing more closely aligned.

Several broader factors could also contribute to higher prices:

RAM shortage and component costs: A global surge in demand for AI hardware has created significant pressure on memory supply, leading to higher RAM prices across the industry.

Supply chain constraints: During a 2026 earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company is seeing “less flexibility in the supply chain than normal,” adding that wholesale memory pricing is “increasing significantly.”

For reference, the current 2025 Mac Studio base configurations are priced as follows on Apple’s website:

• $1,999/£2,099/CA$2,699/AU$3,499 M4 Max, 36GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD
• $3,999/£4,199/CA$5,499/AU$6,999 M3 Ultra, 96GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD

Historically, Apple has shown a willingness to raise starting prices when transitioning between generations. The Mac Pro, for example, increased from $5,999 to $6,999 when Apple Silicon replaced Intel processors.

However, Apple has also positioned the Mac Studio as a relatively affordable high-performance desktop for creative professionals. Since its introduction, the machine has started at $1,999, helping maintain a clear price gap below the $3,199-plus MacBook Pro lineup.

Should you buy a Mac Studio now or wait?

Whether you should buy a Mac Studio now depends on how urgently you need the performance versus whether you are willing to wait for the next generation of Apple silicon.

The Mac Studio was last updated in March 2025 with the introduction of the M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips. Since then, Apple has released the MacBook Pro with the M5 Max. According to our testing, the M5 Max now surpasses the M3 Ultra in CPU performance, although the M3 Ultra still maintains an advantage in certain graphics-intensive workloads thanks to its significantly higher GPU core count.

If you need a high-end workstation immediately, the Mac Studio remains Apple’s most powerful desktop Mac. However, availability has become increasingly limited due to ongoing component shortages. As of May 2026, delivery estimates for some configurations stretch to as long as 10 weeks, meaning orders placed now may not arrive until July 2026.

At the same time, an M5 refresh now appears increasingly likely for October 2026. The next-generation Mac Studio is expected to deliver a substantial performance improvement, particularly with the anticipated M5 Ultra chip, which could represent a significant leap over the current M3 Ultra. For more information see: Should you buy a Mac Studio now or wait?

As a result, buyers who can wait a few more months may be better off holding off for the next generation.

For those who need a Mac Studio sooner rather than later, a refurbished model could be a good alternative and may also offer better value for money. Read: Best place to buy a refurbished MacBook or Mac for advice.

New 2026 Mac mini release date: Will update the M5 Mac mini soon?

• No WWDC release

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that Apple is developing Mac mini models powered by M5 and M5 Pro chips. While the updated machines remain on Apple’s roadmap, his original expectation of a launch in the first half of 2026 has since shifted to later in the year.

The apparent delay may be linked to ongoing supply constraints affecting the current Mac mini lineup. Demand has remained strong, while shortages of key components have limited availability in several markets.

Apple has acknowledged broader manufacturing challenges affecting its M-series chips and memory supply, with CEO Tim Cook indicating in a financial results call that these constraints are likely to continue for several months.

The current Mac mini lineup has already felt the impact. Apple discontinued the entry-level 256GB model, effectively increasing the starting price, while some higher-memory variants have become difficult to find or have disappeared from sale entirely. Shipping estimates for remaining models have also lengthened significantly in many regions.

At the same time, the Mac mini’s popularity has continued to grow, particularly among developers and enthusiasts running local AI workloads. Its compact design, unified memory architecture, and relatively affordable price have made it an attractive platform for local LLM development, further contributing to inventory shortages.

While supply constraints may simply reflect wider industry challenges, dwindling stock levels have historically preceded hardware refreshes. With Apple having already rolled out M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips across much of its Mac lineup in 2026, the Mac mini remains one of the few models yet to receive the latest generation of Apple silicon.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding its release date, a Mac mini refresh featuring M5 and M5 Pro chips still appears likely before the end of 2026.

2026 Mac mini M5 processor: M5 and M5 Pro chips explained

• The new Mac mini will ship M5 and M5 Pro chips

Apple

The M5 and M5 Pro are part of Apple’s latest generation of silicon, powering the current lineup of iPad Pro, MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. While the standard M5 chip focuses on balancing efficiency with a significant leap in AI and graphics performance for general users, the M5 Pro introduces a new “Fusion Architecture” that combines two dies to scale performance for professional workloads.

Apple’s M5 chip: Debuted in October 2025. It represents a significant shift in Apple silicon by prioritizing graphics performance and on-device artificial intelligence. While it maintains the 3-nanometer architecture of its predecessor, it introduces a new GPU design that incorporates dedicated hardware for AI tasks.

• AI and Graphics: The M5 introduces a “Neural Accelerator” in each GPU core, which Apple claims provides “up to 3.5x the AI performance vs iPad Pro with M4”.
• Memory: It supports up to 153GB/s of unified memory bandwidth, a nearly 30% increase over the M4.

Apple’s M5 Pro chip: Released in March 2026 in the MacBook Pro, the M5 Pro is a high-end chip designed for demanding professional tasks like software development and 4K video editing. It introduced a new “Fusion Architecture” combining two dies with high bandwidth and low latency into one SoC, offering improved multithreaded performance and AI capabilities.

• Core Configuration: The M5 Pro starts with a 15-core CPU (5 “super cores” and 10 performance cores) and a 16-core GPU. It can be configured up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU (with 6 super cores and 12 performance cores).
• Advanced Connectivity: Unlike the standard M5, the M5 Pro supports Thunderbolt 5, enabling much higher data transfer speeds and expanded display support.
• Memory and Bandwidth: It features a significantly higher memory bandwidth of 307Gbps and supports larger amounts of unified memory than the base chip.

At a glance: Performance improvements

As seen in our review of the M5 MacBook Pro and our review of the M5 Max MacBook Pro, the biggest gains for the M5 chip come in graphics and AI-related workloads, rather than raw CPU speed.

• Graphics: GPU performance appears noticeably improved over the M4 generation, although results vary depending on workload and chip tier. Our benchmarks of the M5 Pro and M5 Max suggest graphics gains ranging from roughly 10% to 30%, with larger improvements in AI-assisted compute tasks.
• AI and machine learning: Apple is positioning the M5 family heavily around on-device AI performance. New neural acceleration features could significantly improve local AI workloads such as image generation and large language model inference compared to previous-generation Macs.
• Storage speeds: Apple says some M5 Pro and M5 Max systems can deliver up to twice the SSD performance of earlier models, although real-world results will vary depending on storage configuration.
• CPU performance: CPU improvements appear more iterative than transformational. Early benchmarks suggest around 10–15% faster single-core performance compared to equivalent M4 systems, alongside somewhat larger multi-core gains in higher-end configurations.

Why the next Mac mini could be a huge AI upgrade

The next Mac mini could become one of Apple’s biggest AI upgrades yet thanks to the M5 chip’s expected focus on machine learning and neural processing. In recent releases, Apple has been seen to be prioritizing AI performance improvements far more heavily than raw CPU gains, with faster local image generation, improved large language model performance, and better support for on-device AI tools. That could make the next Mac mini especially appealing to developers, creators, and power users experimenting with AI workloads without relying on cloud services.

M5-powered Mac mini specs: Will the new Mac mini have better specs and configurations?

• Faster 512GB SSD as standard
• Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) and Bluetooth 6 possible

Simon Jary / Foundry

Apple is not expected to redesign the Mac mini again in 2026, so the M5 models will likely keep the compact 5-by-5-inch chassis introduced with the M4 generation. Most of the expected changes focus on connectivity, storage, and memory.

Apple increased the base memory of the Mac mini to 16GB with the M4 generation in late 2024, and that will almost certainly continue with the M5 models as AI features and multitasking demand more RAM. The standard M5 Mac mini is expected to start with 16GB of unified memory, while the M5 Pro model could start at 24GB and offer higher-end configurations beyond that, depending on ongoing global memory shortages.

Storage is also expected to improve. Apple discontinued the 256GB Mac mini in May 2026, making 512GB SSD the new entry-level configuration. That strongly suggests the M5 Mac mini will start with a faster 512GB SSD as standard. Higher-end configurations are likely to continue offering up to 4TB storage on the standard model and up to 8TB on the Pro version.

Connectivity upgrades are also likely. The current M4 Mac mini supports Thunderbolt 4, while the M4 Pro already includes Thunderbolt 5. The M5 Mac mini is expected to keep Thunderbolt 4, while the M5 Pro model will likely continue to offer Thunderbolt 5 for faster external storage and display support.

Wireless connectivity could also receive a major upgrade. Apple added Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 to several Macs in early 2026, making those technologies likely additions to the next Mac mini lineup.

At a glance: Expected specs

• 16GB unified memory standard
• 512GB SSD standard
• Up to 4TB SSD (M5) / 8TB SSD (M5 Pro)
• Thunderbolt 4 (M5)
• Thunderbolt 5 (M5 Pro)
• Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
• Bluetooth 6

2026 Mac mini M5 design: Are any design changes expected to the Mac mini

• No design changes expected.

Foundry

The M4 Mac mini underwent a significant physical redesign in October 2024, shrinking to a 5-by-5-inch enclosure. This design will be in place for several years to come. The M5 update is anticipated to focus on internal performance enhancements with no changes to the physical chassis.

No reports indicate that Apple will offer new colors – so a Space Gray Mac mini is unlikely.

New 2026 Mac mini M5: Ports

The port offerings are also expected to remain the same as the M4 Mac mini:

• 2 front USB-C ports (supporting USB 3 at 10Gbps)
• Front 3.5mm audio jack
• 3 rear Thunderbolt ports
• HDMI port
• Gigabit ethernet port (10Gb ethernet option available)

Apple’s Mac mini M5 price: Will the price of the Mac mini increase?

• Price likely to increase compared to M4 generation.

Recent changes to the Mac mini lineup suggest Apple may be shifting its pricing strategy, effectively increasing the cost of entry for buyers. In May 2026, Apple removed the most affordable 256GB version of the M4 Mac mini from its online store, leaving the 512GB configuration as the new base model.

Before that change, the 2024 Mac mini lineup started at:

• $599/£599/CA$799/AU$999 — M4, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD – DISCONTINUED
• $799/£799/CA$1,099/AU$1,299 — M4, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
• $999/£999/CA$1,399/AU$1,599 — M4, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
• $1,399/£1,399/CA$1,999/AU$2,199 — M4 Pro, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD

With the $599 model now discontinued, the effective starting price of the Mac mini has risen to $799. That marks a notable change for a product long known for its affordability. When the Mac mini launched in 2005, it started at $499, and for nearly two decades Apple kept the entry price relatively close to that figure.

Pricing for the upcoming M5 Mac mini has not been confirmed, but Apple’s recent moves suggest the next generation could launch with a higher starting price. One possibility is that Apple simply carries over the current strategy, making a 512GB SSD the standard entry-level configuration and pricing the M5 Mac mini at $799. Another possibility is a more modest increase, similar to Apple’s recent MacBook pricing strategy, where entry-level prices rose alongside larger base storage capacities. In that scenario, the next Mac mini could start around $699/£699 with 512GB of storage.

There are several reasons prices could increase further, including rising component costs, global memory shortages, and potential tariffs. Apple is also expected to begin assembling some Mac mini models at a Foxconn facility in Texas later in 2026 while continuing production in Asia. U.S. manufacturing could help Apple avoid certain tariffs, although domestic production may also increase costs in other areas.

At the same time, Apple may choose to keep pricing stable to preserve the Mac mini’s reputation as its most affordable desktop Mac. The launch of the $599 MacBook Neo also changes the equation slightly, since the Mac mini is no longer Apple’s only low-cost Mac option. In some respects, the MacBook Neo may offer better overall value because it includes a built-in display, keyboard, and battery.

Should you wait to buy the Mac mini?

If you need a Mac mini immediately, there may be little choice but to buy one now – although availability remains limited. Current delivery estimates range from three to four weeks for standard configurations, while models with higher RAM capacities can take up to 10–12 weeks to ship.

Under normal circumstances, we would also suggest looking for discounts on existing models or considering Apple Certified Refurbished options. Unfortunately, ongoing supply shortages mean that stock is currently limited across both new and refurbished Mac mini configurations.

For more guidance read: Should you buy a Mac mini now or wait for M5?

Considering an alternative? Read our Best Mac buying guide.

Factors affecting availability of the Mac mini

The Mac mini’s current supply constraints and unusually high demand could significantly affect the launch timing and availability of new models. Limited manufacturing capacity for Apple’s advanced M-series chips, combined with global RAM shortages, may restrict Apple’s ability to produce enough next-generation Mac minis at launch, potentially delaying the release until supply stabilizes. At the same time, strong demand from AI developers and businesses using the Mac mini as a compact AI server is rapidly depleting existing inventory, complicating Apple’s transition between generations. While dwindling stock levels can sometimes indicate that a refresh is imminent, the broader component shortages affecting the industry could just as easily reduce launch availability or delay the M5 Mac mini altogether.

Global supply constraints

As of May 2026, the Mac mini is facing significant supply shortages, with low stock at retailers and some configurations disappearing from Apple’s online store. The main issue is limited manufacturing capacity for Apple’s advanced M-series chips, which Tim Cook recently described as the primary bottleneck. A wider global memory shortage has added further pressure, particularly for higher-RAM models, as AI data centers compete for the same components. Rising production costs have also pushed Apple to discontinue the $599 base model, steering buyers toward more expensive configurations.

High demand due to popularity of Mac mini for AI

At the same time, demand for the Mac mini has surged because of its growing popularity as a compact AI server. Developers and companies are increasingly using it to run local AI agents and large language models (LLMs), leading to temporary sell-outs at major retailers. The Mac mini has long been popular as Apple’s most affordable and versatile desktop, but its combination of Apple silicon, unified memory architecture, compact size, and energy efficiency has made it especially attractive for AI workloads and 24/7 local AI setups.

The Mac mini’s unified memory architecture allows the CPU and GPU to share the same memory pool, improving performance for AI tasks compared to traditional PCs with separate RAM and VRAM. Combined with its small footprint and relatively low starting price, it offers an accessible entry point for AI development. However, there are trade-offs: memory and storage cannot be upgraded after purchase, higher RAM configurations are recommended for serious AI work, and users must supply their own monitor and peripherals. Some analysts also believe the limited availability could indicate Apple is preparing updated hardware, although supply issues may have delayed the expected M5 Mac mini launch until later in 2026.

What are the biggest upgrades for iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max

• Pro models launching first in September 2026, base models delayed to spring 2027
• Smaller Dynamic Island likely, with some Face ID components under the display
• Possible variable aperture camera (Pro Max only)
• New A20 chip (2nm) for performance and efficiency gains
• Apple’s own C2 modem expected across the lineup
• Potential satellite internet support, for web browsing and so on, not just emergency use

How is iPhone 18 Pro/Max different from iPhone 17 Pro/Max?

• Split release schedule (Pro first, base later)
• Smaller or modified Dynamic Island
• Possible under-display Face ID components
• New modem (shift away from Qualcomm)
• Camera experimentation (rumored variable aperture on Pro Max)

When will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max launch?

Apple has not announced when the iPhone 18 lineup will launch, but based on its usual schedule, the company is expected to unveil new iPhones in September 2026.

However, multiple reports suggest Apple could significantly change its release strategy that year. Rather than launching the entire iPhone 18 lineup at once, Apple is reportedly planning to release only its premium models in September 2026: the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, a new foldable iPhone, and potentially an updated iPhone Air.

According to these reports, the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e would follow in spring 2027. If accurate, this would mark the biggest change to Apple’s iPhone launch schedule since the lineup expanded beyond a single annual release.

A staggered rollout would allow Apple to focus attention on its highest-end devices during the holiday shopping season while giving the company a second major iPhone launch window in the first half of 2027. It would also mean that every new iPhone introduced in September 2026 would likely start at $999 or more.

As always, Apple has not confirmed these plans, and the release schedule could change before launch.

What will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max look like and what are the color choices?

The design of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max is said to resemble the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, but some changes are predicted.

One possible change, shared by a Weibo leaker in September 2025, is a “slightly transparent” ceramic shield section on the back of Pro models, though details are unclear.

Macworld contributor Filipe Esposito reported that a trusted source had revealed one of the new colorways for the iPhone 18 Pro to be Dark Cherry, replacing the iPhone 17 Pro’s Cosmic Orange option.

Other shades are said to include: Light Blue, Dark Gray, and Silver. There was also a coffee shade rumored (via Digital Chat Station).

As with the iPhone 17 Pro, there will be no black option, according to Instant Digital.

Screen sizes are expected to remain at 6.3 and 6.9 inches. The Pro models will also retain the wider three-camera raised plateau.

Most likely: Design changes will be minimal, with the biggest visible differences limited to colors and subtle refinements.

What’s new with the iPhone 18 Pro/Max camera?

Eugen Wegmann

Apple may introduce variable aperture technology to the 48MP main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max (potentially only the Pro Max), allowing mechanical control over light intake and depth of field. This has long been a perk limited to high-end professional cameras.

If the rumor (from Digital Chat Station on Weibo) is true, iPhone users will be able to mechanically control how much light reaches the sensor for the first time, allowing more control over depth of field and sharpness. This could elevate portrait shots by improving the applied depth of field effect, as well as minimizing overexposure.

Improved telephoto apertures on the Pro models should also result in better low-light performance.

For some time (since January 2025) Samsung has been said to be working on a new three-layer stacked camera sensor called ‘PD-TR-Logic,’ and this could appear in the iPhone 18 series. This image sensor is expected to enhance the camera’s responsiveness, while also offering advantages such as reduced photo noise, improved dynamic range.

The front-facing camera may also get an upgrade beyond the rumored changes to the housing (as discussed elsewhere the selfie camera may be housed in a smaller hole-punch cut out, reducing the size of the Dynamic Island). The iPhone 17 generation features 18MP sensors for the selfie camera, but this may increase to 24MP in the next generation, according to leaker WhyLab on Weibo.

More megapixels would lead to improved video calls and better low-light performance. 

Most likely: Incremental improvements, with a new variable aperture feature on the Pro Max.

Will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max Dynamic Island or front camera change?

Britta O’Boyle

Apple hasn’t changed the Dynamic Island since the iPhone 14 Pro, but the iPhone 18 Pro may introduce some adjustments.

Some reports suggest Face ID components could move under the display, shrinking the Dynamic Island. 

A report in December 2025 from Weibo account “Smart Pikachu” claimed that Apple is testing an under-display “micro-transparent glass panel” for some Face ID sensors. This should enable a smaller Dynamic Island for iPhone 18 Pro. 

The ever-reliable Mark Gurman at Bloomberg also reported that Apple will “shrink” the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 18 models, so there’s strong evidence that some of the several sensors and emitters required for Face ID will be under the display or combined.

A spy shot published in March by noted leaker IceUniverse on X gives us a view of how much smaller the Dynamic Island could be.

IceUniverse/X

There have been conflicting claims that the position of the front-facing camera may also change: 

• In December 2025 The Information claimed Apple will put the Face ID sensors under the display, and move the front camera to the upper left corner in a punch-hole design. This would make the iPhone 18 Pro/ Max the first iPhones with a front camera in the corner.
• However, Prominent leaker account Instant Digital said on Weibo in January 2026 that front camera claim was based on a mistranslation, and only the infrared sensor moves under the display. Leakers ShrimpApplePro and Ross Young of DSCC corroborated Instant Digital’s claims.

Most likely: A smaller Dynamic Island with some components of Face ID under the glass. Smaller pill cut out for camera, remaining in central position.

Will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max display change?

Stephan Wiesend

Screen sizes should be consistent with the 6.3 and 6.9-inch displays on the current models, but reports suggest a massive jump in brightness from the current 1600 nits HDR and 3,000 nits peak. https://www.macworld.com/article/3039085/the-iphone-18-is-expected-to-get-a-much-brighter-screen.html

According to Weibo leaker, Instant Digital, Chinese supplier BOE has revealed that Apple is targeting unprecedentedly high brightness requirements for the display. The Elec corroborated this, claiming BOE is struggling with iPhone OLED production so panel orders have been shifted to Samsung Display.

Most likely: An increase in brightness is expected, but there are no details yet on the extent of the improvement.

How powerful will the A20 chip in the iPhone 18 Pro/Max be?

The iPhone 18 series is expected to use a new A20 chip, built on TSMC’s N2 (2nm) process. This will represent a major architectural shift for Apple’s smartphone silicon, primarily due to the transition to a more advanced manufacturing process. 

This move to a smaller process allows for more transistors in the same space, which is projected to deliver up to 15% faster performance and 30% better power efficiency compared to the A19 chip. 

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models will utilize an A20 Pro variant to further differentiate their capabilities. This increased power is expected to support advanced features.

The A20 could also follow the lead of Apple’s M-series chips by introducing “super cores,” similar to the M5 chip

The A20 is rumored to use a new process called Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging to incorporate the RAM into the SoC’s package. It’s not clear what the benefit will be, but more tightly integrated RAM can mean more memory bandwidth and lower RAM latency, or better power efficiency.

Most likely: A typical Apple leap in efficiency and speed, with behind-the-scenes gains rather than dramatic user-visible changes.

Will connectivity improve (5G, Wi-Fi, satellite) with iPhone 18 Pro/Max?

iPhone 18 Pro models are rumored to feature the second generation of Apple’s in-house 5G modem, the C2 chip. 

The C2 modem, which hasn’t yet launched, is expected to replace Qualcomm across Apple’s lineup. This should improve:

• Efficiency
• Performance
• mmWave support

There are also reports that the new iPhone will gain full satellite internet support, expanding beyond emergency use. In October 2025, The Information claimed that Apple is gearing up to support 5G networks that are served from satellites.

While the iPhone has offered satellite connectivity for emergency situations for years, if this rumor is true it would allow the iPhone 18 models to have full internet access via satellite, not just emergency services.

As of April 2026, it looks like Apple is teaming up with Amazon to provide this service. Early in April, Amazon announced that it has acquired Globalstar, who was the provider of iPhone and Apple Watch satellite connectivity. So now iPhones and Apple Watches will now fall under Amazon Leo, Amazon’s satellite internet network.

The Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip (N1) will likely remain unchanged. Apple debuted its local networking chip in the iPhone 17 line – the N1 supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread networking. We haven’t heard anything about an N2, and honestly, one probably isn’t needed so soon. Could Apple have an “N1X” surprise in store the way it did with the C1X? It’s possible, but so far the rumor mill expects Apple to build the iPhone 18 line with the same N1 chip as found in the iPhone 17.

Most likely: A meaningful upgrade in connectivity, especially if satellite internet expands.

How much will the iPhone 18 Pro/Max cost?

Pricing may remain the same as the current generation as no major pricing changes are currently rumored for the new iPhone 18 series.

However, the introduction of a folding iPhone could dramatically change the pricing structure, as it will reportedly have a starting price of $1,999 or more.

Current pricing is as follows: