Apple is gearing up for a fresh wave of innovation, with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman revealing key details about the company’s upcoming hardware plans. From a powerful M6 iPad Pro to a redesigned Apple Watch SE, the Cupertino-based tech giant is setting the stage for significant product upgrades over the next few years.
📱 M6 iPad Pro with Apple-Designed 5G Modem Coming in 2027
According to Gurman, Apple is working on next-gen iPad Pro models powered by the M6 chip, slated for release in 2027. The new iPads will also feature an in-house Apple 5G modem—the C2—marking a major shift from the current Qualcomm-based modems.
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Current Status: iPad Pro models released in May 2024 feature the M4 chip.
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Next Upgrade: M5 version expected by October 2025.
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M6 iPad Pro Launch: Tentatively planned for 2027, aligning with Apple’s usual 18-month refresh cycle.
This move strengthens Apple’s push toward vertical integration and greater control over its hardware and connectivity stack.
💻 M5 MacBook Air and Entry-Level iPad May Launch in 2026
Apple is also developing MacBook Air models featuring the M5 chip, alongside a new entry-level iPad. While exact specs and designs are still under wraps, these models are expected to launch sometime in 2026.
Gurman notes that aside from the chip upgrades, there are no significant design or feature changes currently rumored for these models, suggesting a performance-centric refresh.
⌚ Affordable Apple Watch SE Could Get a Plastic Makeover
In addition to iPads and MacBooks, Apple is exploring a cost-effective redesign of the Apple Watch SE. The biggest change? A potential plastic body instead of the traditional aluminum chassis. This could help reduce manufacturing costs and bring the price down even further for budget-conscious consumers.
However, Gurman notes that design challenges are slowing down progress on this front, and no clear launch window has been confirmed.
🔍 What This Means for Apple’s Strategy
Apple’s long-term roadmap shows a clear intent to:
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Reduce dependence on Qualcomm by pushing forward with its in-house modem development.
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Continue its chip innovation streak, with M5 and M6 SoCs in the pipeline.
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Target budget-conscious consumers with a more affordable Apple Watch SE option.
These developments are part of Apple’s broader goal to tighten control over its hardware ecosystem, enabling it to deliver better performance, longer support cycles, and improved supply chain efficiency.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
