Apple is getting ready for its first major product launch of the year, which is scheduled for Wednesday, February 19. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Apple CEO Tim Cook announced the date and teased the event with the words “Get ready to meet the newest member of the family,” accompanied by an animated Apple logo.
Apple has been mum on the details, but we should expect to see improvements to the MacBook Air, iPad, and maybe even the Vision Pro headset, in addition to the much anticipated iPhone SE 4.
It is believed that the iPhone SE 4 will take the stage. Despite its reputation for inexpensive prices, Apple has not released an update to the iPhone SE series since March 2022. This time around, the gadget is said to be getting a complete makeover, shedding its previous style for something more trendy.
The iPhone SE series, known for its affordability, has not seen an update since March 2022. This time, the SE 4 is expected to undergo a complete design overhaul, moving away from its classic look to a more modern aesthetic.
Key rumored upgrades include:
There are other products that are making waves, though, besides the iPhone SE 4. Reportedly, Apple is getting ready to release a new MacBook Air using the M4 chip. Like Apple’s most current MacBook models, the upgraded laptop will likely have 16 GB of RAM as standard. There won’t be any huge overhauls to the design, but the M4 chip should be more efficient and offer better performance.
Now let’s move on to the iPad lineup, where speculations indicate that both the iPad Air and the entry-level iPad will receive improvements. The M3 chip might be used to improve the iPad Air, while the A16 or A17 Pro could be used for the base model. The iPads are not likely to receive any further significant improvements.
Another theory that has been floated in response to the teaser logo is that Apple might release an upgraded AirTag. The possibility of a second-generation AirTag being unveiled at the event has been denied by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Cook may have used a circular Apple logo in his teaser post, but Gurman still thinks it’s improbable that Apple would use a big announcement to promote a $29 accessory. There have been rumours that an AirTag 2 is in development, although its release is still set for mid-2025.
According to Gurman, Apple would not voluntarily promote a tiny tracking device, despite rumours that Cook’s circular teaser could be a new feature for an AirTag 2. Although the second-generation AirTag could be unveiled in the middle of 2025, it appears that it will not be showcased during next week’s presentation.
Rumour has it that the next-gen AirTag will include an enhanced speaker that can’t be tampered with, a longer-range Ultra Wideband processor, and tighter connectivity with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Concerning that matter, rumours have circulated regarding the possibility of a Vision Pro headset update. Apple may improve the device’s gaming capabilities by adding compatibility for the PlayStation VR2 controller, according to reports. This change would solve the problem of the Vision Pro not having any specific handheld controls.
Another exciting prospect is the sneak peek of Apple’s smart home hub. This device, which is essentially a screen-enabled HomePod, may come with an A18 chip, support for Apple Intelligence, and a 6-or 7-inch touchscreen. Launching in late 2025, it has the potential to manage smart home gadgets, take FaceTime conversations, and perform other common operations.