Apple’s 2026: Will it start with a bang or a whimper?

January is typically a slow month for Apple, with new hardware releases and updates usually saved for the spring months. While there’s a possibility of some new hardware dropping this month, it’s more likely that we’ll see major releases in March or April. The OS updates for 26.3 may bring some minor tweaks, leaving us to look forward to updates in Apple Arcade and Apple TV instead.

Looking back to 2023, the last time Apple released new hardware in January, we saw updated M2 Pro/Max versions of the Mac mini and MacBook Pro. The trend seems to be continuing for 2026, with rumors of updated Apple TV 4K and M5 MacBook Pro models on the horizon. There’s also anticipation for an updated HomePod mini and 2nd-gen AirTag. Keep an eye out for these potential releases in January.

A highly anticipated product that may make an appearance in the early part of the year is the low-cost MacBook, which has been rumored for a debut in the first half of 2026. While this would have been a likely candidate for a January release in years past, it’s more probable to see this, along with other hardware releases, closer to the spring months.

In terms of software updates, the 26.3 updates are in beta currently, and we’re expecting these to roll out near the end of January or early February. The potential update to iOS 26.4 has been generating buzz, with rumors suggesting a significant overhaul to Siri, making it smarter and more conversational.

As for services like Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade, there are exciting releases to look forward to in January. Shows like “Tehran” (season 3), “Hijack” (season 2), and “Drops of God” (season 2) are set to premiere on Apple TV+. On Apple Arcade, games like “True Skate+,” “Cozy Caravan,” and “Potion Punch 2+” are slated for release on January 8th. Get ready for a month filled with new content from Apple’s streaming and gaming platforms!