A new investor’s note from well-connected Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reveals that he expects refreshes for the iPhone, iPad, Mac mini, MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac, and Apple Watch. Plus, he sees a new “low-cost” laptop from Apple. All of this he expects in the second half of 2018.
Much of what Kuo has to share has been mentioned before, but he provides a nice overview of what we can expect to see this fall along with some interesting new tidbits on Apple’s upcoming product lineup.
iPhones: As already expected, Kuo says their are three iPhones in the works, with 5.8-inch and 6.5-inch OLED models, and a cheaper LED model available in a 6.1-inch size. All three iPhones will boast Face ID, and an A12 processor. The OLED models will sport dual-lens cameras, and the lower-cost model will have a single-lens shooter.
iPad Pro: Apple is said to be working on two new iPad Pro models, in 11 and 12.9-inch sizes, both boasting a full-screen design with Face ID, and no Home button.
MacBook and MacBook Pro: Processor upgrades.
New, Low-Priced Notebook: Kuo originally believed a new notebook would be positioned in the MacBook Air lineup, but now thinks the new machine could be a 12-inch MacBook.
Mac mini: A processor upgrade at least, and possibly a redesigned chassis. It’s been more than 3 and a half years since the mini had a refresh. It’s overdue.
iMac: Kuo says only that he expects a significant display performance upgrade, and a processor refresh.
Apple Watch: Kuo says Apple is working on two new Apple Watch models, with bigger displays and enhanced heart rate detection capabilities. The new Watches will have screens roughly 15% bigger than current models.
Kuo’s note also predicts new AirPods and the AirPower wireless charging mat will go into mass production in Q3 of 2018.
As usual, predictions like this are to be taken with a grain of your favorite salt-free substitute, even from a well-connected source like Kuo. Stay tuned.
