Apple Event LIVE: What to expect, rumour breakdown and announcements

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2026-03-02T13:47:14.698Z
Will the Studio Display 2 bring Apple back into the pro monitor game?

Creative pros are probably wondering what to do about the Studio Display 2. Apple’s last monitor release was so long ago that it doesn’t even appear in our best monitor for graphic artist guide – but could this rumoured release earn Apple a spot in there?

The short answer is yes. If the rumours are true, the Studio Display 2 won’t be just a minor spec bump, it is set to be a blow to the monitors that are currently riding high in our recommendation list (like the ASUS ProArt and BenQ PD series).

Here is how the rumoured Studio Display 2 compares to current creative favourites like the ASUS ProArt PA32UCDM (see the review) and the BenQ MA320U (and that review, too).

(Image credit: Future/ASUS/BenQ/ViewSonic)

1. Retina (Apple wins)

For graphic designers and typographers, the Studio Display 2 remains untouchable. Most pro monitors from ASUS or BenQ are 4K at 32 inches, which creates “fuzzy” text on macOS due to non-integer scaling. Apple’s rumoured 6K 32-inch and 5K 27-inch models hit the 218 PPI sweet spot that makes macOS look like high-quality print.

2. HDR (Apple catches up)

The biggest complaint from video editors (and is the reason it isn’t in our top 10 of monitors) was that the original Studio Display was SDR-only. By adding Mini-LED and 1,000+ nits of sustained brightness, Apple is finally matching the HDR capabilities of the MacBook Pro. This makes it a legitimate monitor for colour grading, though it probably won’t beat the infinite contrast of the OLED ASUS ProArt in a pitch-black room.

3. Smoothness and motion (it’s a draw)

The addition of 120Hz ProMotion is huge for video editors working with high-frame-rate footage. While the ASUS 240Hz panel is technically faster, the jump from 60Hz to 120Hz on the Studio Display 2 removes the ghosting and lag that previously made the Apple monitor feel dated next to modern pro displays.

4. Single cable (Apple wins)

No pro monitor matches Apple’s integrated tech. The rumored A19 chip inside the display could power a much-improved 12MP Center Stage webcam and a speaker system that acts as a native spatial audio hub. For many pros, not needing a separate webcam, mic, and speakers on their desk is worth the Apple Tax.

So, yes the Studio Display 2 is going to be a serious contender for your attention if you work in the Apple ecosystem already.

2026-03-02T13:30:11.319Z

Which rumoured new Apple product are you most excited about? You can choose two, because I’m kind like that.

2026-03-02T13:12:08.784Z

The other lineups are a bit more straightforward – if you want a new iPad or MacBook we generally advise jumping a couple of iterations at a time.

If you’re researching, we have a lineup of brilliant guides onsite that will help you to make a decision. First try our iPad generations explainer, which tells you all about every model available (so far).

And there’s our iPad for drawing guide, which tells digital artists which tablet they should go for.

We’ve tested every single iPad so we really do know our stuff.

2026-03-02T12:59:29.918Z
Upgrade to the MacBook A18 Pro?

The rumoured MacBook A18 Pro is perhaps the most interesting proposition from the new lineup. I am attached to my MacBook Air M2, but I could probably run most of my daily workflow on the specs attached to the new budget MacBook as my creative tasks are light – and I have no doubt it’ll be excellent for content creators on the move.

In essence, it sounds a lot like an Apple version of a Chromebook – and a well-made Chromebook (like the Acer Chromebook Spin 714) is worth its weight if you don’t need the chops of a roomier, more powerful laptop.

I’d be really into the design aesthetics proposed (I loved the new iMac range), and to have something light and portable enough for the smallest backpack would be welcome.

But is there even an upgrade conversation to have with this model?

You certainly can’t have a conversation about anyone using the Pro, but is there a worthwhile upgrade from any of the Airs?

Actually, yes.

1. Upgrade from: Intel-based MacBook Air (2020 or older)

If you are still running a fan-cooled Intel Mac, the jump to the A18 Pro will be monumental. Even though it’s a phone chip, the A18 Pro outperforms Intel Airs in almost every metric while remaining completely silent and cool. You’ll gain Apple Intelligence support, significantly better battery life (rumoured up to 15+ hours), and a much more vibrant display.

2. Upgrade from: MacBook Air M1 (2020)

This is the most interesting comparison. Benchmarks suggest the A18 Pro has faster single-core speeds than the M1, meaning web browsing and app launches will feel speedier. However, the M1 still holds an edge in multi-core tasks like video rendering. You should only consider this if you want the new design, colours and AI-readiness.

Note: Do not upgrade from anything after an M2 Air. Same goes if you work in 4K video.

(Image credit: Future)

2026-03-02T12:44:29.383Z
Upgrades?

Your next question is probably about the value of upgrading on all of those new potential models.

Let’s start with the iPhone 17e.

This phone will never be in our best iPhone for Photography guide but does have value for some users. Should you upgrade?

Of course, it you simply like the specs then that will answer the question for you. But if you’re on the fence of when and what to upgrade to, the model you currently have will determine whether it’s a viable and valuable upgrade for you. Anything newer than a 14 in the flagship line and you probably won’t see any benefit, fyi. But here are three valid options for upgrade.

1. Upgrade from: iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or older

(Image credit: Apple)

If you’re still using the home button and a tiny 4.7-inch screen, the 17e will feel like a device from the future. You’re moving from an LCD to a 6.1-inch OLED, gaining Face ID, and jumping from a measly 12MP camera to a 48MP sensor. Plus, the 17e is rumored to be the cheapest entry point for Apple Intelligence, which the SE 3 simply can’t run.

2. Upgrade from: iPhone 13 or iPhone 14

(Image credit: Apple)

For owners of these older base models, the 17e is a surprisingly logical move. You’ll finally get the Action Button, USB-C charging, and, most importantly, the Dynamic Island (replacing that dated notch). While the screen size is the same, the A19 chip and 8GB of RAM provide the headroom needed for modern AI tasks that the iPhone 13 and 14 struggle with.

3. Upgrade from: iPhone 16e

(Image credit: Apple)

This is probably rare, but if you bought the 16e and immediately regretted the lack of MagSafe or the presence of the notch, the 17e fixes both. It’s a refined version of the budget experiment, adding the magnetic ecosystem and a more efficient Apple-designed C1X modem for better battery and 5G speeds.

2026-03-02T12:18:50.919Z

We haven’t heard anything of plans for Apple’s Studio Display since 2022. I use it everyday, and a juicy creative-focused update is well overdue.

The latest rumours suggest a massive upgrade is coming this week. Reports from Macworld and internal macOS 26.3 code point to not one, but two new models (codenames J427 and J527).

The headline feature? ProMotion. We might finally see a 120Hz refresh rate on an Apple desktop monitor, though some leakers suggest a 90Hz ‘middle ground’ for the standard model. Pro-users should keep an eye on the rumoured 32-inch ‘Pro’ variant, which could bridge the gap to the Pro Display XDR with mini-LED backlighting and Thunderbolt 5. Inside, an A19 chip is expected to replace the ancient A13, potentially bringing Center Stage improvements and HomePod-level audio processing to the six built-in speakers.

If true, this sounds like fantastic news for creatives, and also for Apple which has been falling behind innovators like ASUS when it comes to monitors.

Sizes: New 27-inch and 32-inch configurations.Display: ProMotion (120Hz) and HDR support.Processor: Upgraded to the A19 chip.Connectivity: Thunderbolt 5.

(Image credit: Apple)

2026-03-02T12:03:35.026Z
iPad Air M4: all the rumours

The rumoured iPad Air M4 looks set to solidify the sleekest tablet around as a ‘good for everyone’ model. While it won’t be chasing the Pro’s OLED glory just yet, it’s reportedly making the expected leap to the M4 chip – the same powerhouse currently found in the 2025 iPad Pro. We love the iPad Air (it’s great for so many creative workflows as you can see from our iPad Air M3 review).

Creative pros who can’t afford the iPad Pro will be pleased because this update is all about power. The M4 is expected to deliver a 30% CPU speed bump over the current M3 model, alongside a souped-up Neural Engine designed to tackle the next generation of AI features in iPadOS. There’s also talk of the N1 networking chip bringing Wi-Fi 7 to the Air for the first time. Expect the same sleek 11-inch and 13-inch liquid retina displays, but with potentially punchier new color options to mark the refresh.

Rumours at a glance:

Processor: Jumping to the M4.Display: Sticking with LED (OLED expected in 2027).Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support.Price: Expected to hold at $599.

(Image credit: Apple / Future)

2026-03-02T11:52:12.943Z
And what about the MacBook Pro M5 and M5 Pro Max?

As we know from our years spent covering MacBooks for creatives, the M5 Pro and M5 Pro Max MacBook Pros are the performance titans – ideal for serious creative pros. For example, the MacBook M4 Pro is topping our best laptops for 3D modelling list right now.

Though the base 14-inch M5 model debuted late last year (see our MacBook Pro M5 review here) this ‘big week’ is expected to culminate in the release of the high-end 14-inch and 16-inch configurations. This means our guides are all likely to update to this new contender in the Pro laptop field.

Leakers are calling the M5 Max a monster, with rumours of a 25% performance uplift and a new architecture that separation of CPU and GPU cores for better efficiency. We’re also hearing about a Neural Accelerator in every GPU core, specifically designed to crush complex AI workloads. Don’t look for a redesign – that’s reportedly saved for the 2027 OLED transition. For now, the focus is pure power: Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 5, and a staggering 128GB RAM ceiling.

Rumours at a glance:

Chips: M5 Pro and M5 Max (built on TSMC’s N3P process).Price: Expected to start at $1,999 for the 14-inch Pro.Connectivity: Support for up to four 6K displays on the Max variant.Launch: Predicted for Wednesday, March 4th.

We loved the MacBook Pro M4 and are yearning for a big-screen version of the M5 (Image credit: Future / Erlingur Einarsson)

2026-03-02T11:34:10.815Z

It’s not all brand-new concepts like the MacBook A18 Pro and iPhone 17e, there are also rumours abound about expected upgrades to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro lineups.

While these are more predictable, they’re also welcome – especially because the Macbook Air is fast becoming more than enough power for the average creative. Our MacBook Air M4 review lauded the speed and power, and pointed out that the performance covers most creative tasks from moderate video editing to light 3D work, and that the price point it remains at makes it a really valuable option in Apple’s lineup. It’s always been my favourite model – I’m typing on the M2 version right now.

So what do we expect from the MacBook Air M5?
While the rumoured “budget” MacBook is for the value-hunters and light content creator, the M5 MacBook Air is being positioned as the ultimate AI workhorse for mainstream creators.

Inside, the M5 chip (built on an enhanced 3nm process) is expected to deliver a 15% boost in CPU speed and a massive 30% jump in GPU performance (wow). But its a new Neural Accelerator in each GPU core that make this the AI monster of the thin-and-light world.

But don’t expect a design revolution just yet. Leaks suggest the Air will keep the current 13-inch and 15-inch fanless chassis. However, with Wi-Fi 7 support and a starting 16GB of RAM, the classic and much-loved design is getting a serious internal makeover.

At a glance:

Launch: Rumoured for Tuesday, March 3rd.Price: Expected to start at $1,099.Display: Retina LCD (OLED likely held for 2028).Speed: 153GB/s memory bandwidth for smoother multitasking.

(Image credit: Future)

2026-03-02T11:20:51.102Z
The rumoured iPad 12

Apparently, the base-model iPad is getting an upgraded inside. Rumours for the iPad 12 (12th Gen) suggest that Apple is ditching the aging A16 chip for the A18 (or potentially the A19), a massive leap that finally brings Apple Intelligence to the entry-level lineup.

Design-wise, don’t expect a revolution – it’s likely to stick with the reliable 11-inch Liquid Retina display and the landscape selfie cam. However, the real story is the rumoured upgrade to 8GB of RAM, a necessary move to handle the upcoming Siri 2.0 and on-device AI tools. While we might still be looking at a 60Hz screen and non-laminated glass to keep costs down, the inclusion of the N1 wireless chip for Wi-Fi 7 means this budget tablet is built for the future.

Rumours at a glance:

Price: Holding the line at a very reasonable $349.Processor: A18 or A19 chip with 8GB RAM.Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support.AI: Full support for Writing Tools and Image Wand.

The iPad 11 is going to be left in the dust with the advent of the 12 (Image credit: Apple)

2026-03-02T11:09:52.390Z
The expected MacBook A18 Pro

This is one of the most exciting rumours for the majority, including creators and students. An ultra-affordable MacBook powered by the A18 Pro – the powerhouse found in the iPhone 16 Pro – rather than M-series chip.

For the budget-conscious student, an on-the-move freelancer or a content creator, this could be a game-changer. Leaks suggest a portable 12.9-inch design that ditches the classic Silver and Space Gray for a more vibrant palette of yellow, blue, and green (this kind of design is what we hoped the logo was pointing to). While the model might lose Thunderbolt support and a backlit keyboard to hit the rumoured $599 price point, the A18 Pro’s NPU is more than capable of handling Apple Intelligence tasks.

If the ‘Special Experience’ events or preceding announcements deliver this “iPhone-in-a-laptop,” it could be the most disruptive Mac since the original Air.

Rumours at a glance:

Processor: iPhone A18 Pro chip.Price: Between $599 – $699.Design: 12.9-inch LCD in playful new colours.Trade-offs: No Thunderbolt; potential 8GB RAM ceiling.

(Image credit: Apple)

2026-03-02T11:00:59.887Z
All about the rumoured iPhone 17e

The latest iPhone 17e rumours describe a device that finally delivers stunning design alongside a much lower price tag.

According to the rumours, the notch will be ditched in favour of the Dynamic Island, giving the entry-level model a much-needed glow-up. Designers, take note: a A19 chip is expected to drive much improved performance for mobile editing and Apple Intelligence, so potentially even the most affordable iPhone will stay relevant as AI starts to take more of a centre position in Apple’s strategy.

While the 60Hz screen might feel a bit retro for some, the addition of MagSafe, a glaring omission on the 16e, and a rumoured 18MP selfie cam could make this a compelling choice for creators. I’m also hearing whispers of an upgraded C1X modem for faster 5G, tucked inside the 6.1-inch frame.

Rumours at a glance:

Price: Holding steady at $599.Design: Slimmer bezels and Dynamic Island.Pro Feature: MagSafe support (finally) arrives.Performance: A19 chip with 8GB RAM for AI tasks.

The iPhone 16e had a few major omissions (Image credit: Future / Apple)

2026-03-02T10:52:53.269Z

While we’ve got a few hours to wait before any expected news (Tim Cook said it’ll probably be 9 a.m. EST / 2 p.m. GMT), I’m seeing tons of speculation online already. So let’s go one product at a time. As I’ve mentioned, the expected lineup is as follows:

iPhone 17eMacBook A18 ProMacBook Pro M5 Pro and M5 Pro MaxMacBook Air M5iPad 12iPad Air M4Mac Studio Display

Apple Event Products:📱 iPhone 17e📲 iPad Air (M4)🆕 iPad 12 (A18)💻 MacBook (A18 Pro)🚀 MacBook Pro (M5 Pro/Max)✨ MacBook Air (M5)Which one are you upgrading to? 👇 pic.twitter.com/ezSrI6cdCIFebruary 18, 2026

Stand by and I’ll run through the expectations for that product lineup. Of course, Apple often throws curveballs so anything could happen (we’re hoping for a new iPod please!)

2026-03-02T09:41:02.442Z

And we’re off! It’s a huge week for Apple, with the promise of approximately FIVE new products. Things have felt a little stale in the Applesphere lately, with iterative updates on the same models coming year after year. While we love the sleek design of Apple tech, I also love innovation so something new is very welcome indeed.

Of course last year saw the release of the iPhone Air, which tired hard to be innovative in its super slim design. Unfortunately, it didn’t match up to the performance of the iPad Air with battery life and camera being two major concessions – and remained very expensive. This means I’m skeptical about the prospect of any properly affordable Apple option, though it’ll be a great thing if they manage to nail affordability while keeping key features useable.

I’ll be here, along with the rest of the CB team, to share news, announcements and opinion with you for the next few days.

(Image credit: Apple/Future)

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