Apple confirms March 4 launch event: iPhone 17e, budget Macbook potential debut

The company is hosting what it calls a Special Apple Experience, with simultaneous gatherings planned in New York, London, and Shanghai. 

File photo: iPhone 16e

Q1 2026 Apple products

The event is set to begin at 9:00 a.m. ET (14:00 UTC / 7:30 p.m. IST). Apple has not indicated whether a livestream will be available, suggesting the event may be focused on press rather than a public keynote.

Multiple product updates are expected to be showcased. The iPhone 17e is rumored to succeed the iPhone 16e as the latest entry-level model. Reports suggest it may include features previously limited to higher-end devices, such as MagSafe support, an A19 chip, and an OLED display with Dynamic Island.

An upgraded front camera is also speculated, which would reduce the feature gap between the "e" models and the standard iPhone lineup.

Special Apple Experience event

Mac updates are also anticipated. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models may receive M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, while the MacBook Air could be updated with the base M5 processor. These are expected to be performance upgrades rather than design overhauls.

A more notable possibility is the introduction of a low-cost MacBook powered by an A-series chip rather than Apple's M-series processors. 

If released, such a device would be priced below USD 800 and feature an aluminum chassis. Some leaks also mention the inclusion of more colorful options, which would mark a departure from recent MacBook designs.

Updates to the iPad and iPad Air are also rumored, potentially featuring newer chips. Additionally, a refreshed Apple Studio Display with Mini-LED technology and a higher refresh rate has been speculated, though these details remain unconfirmed.

The "Special Apple Experience" format indicates that Apple may prioritize hands-on interaction with new hardware over a traditional keynote presentation.

What do you guys think?

Source: Apple