Apple's future plans are laid bare in a massive iOS 26 leak, revealing a treasure trove of upcoming products that will have fans salivating. But is this a blessing or a curse for the tech giant?
Unveiling the Unannounced:
A recent leak of an iOS 26 build has exposed details about Apple's extensive hardware pipeline. This follows last week's revelations about unreleased devices like the next-gen AirTag, iPad Air, and Apple Studio Display.
The Prototype Sale:
The story begins with the sale of a prototype iPhone running iOS 26, which led to the operating system's public availability. Researchers dove into the code, unearthing secrets about Apple's ongoing projects.
MacRumors Confirmed:
MacRumors highlights that the leaked file system includes identifiers for numerous unreleased Apple products, including Mac devices, corroborating AppleInsider's October 2025 report on macOS Tahoe's leak.
Mac Release Timeline:
The leak reinforces the anticipated Mac release schedule, with the M5 MacBook Air expected in early 2026, followed by the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro, and a budget MacBook.
Mac mini and Mac Studio Updates:
Later in the year, an upgraded Mac mini with M5 and M5 Pro chips is due, alongside new Mac Studio configurations. The redesigned M6 Pro and M6 Max MacBook Pros will arrive in late 2026, while the M6 model sticks with the current MacBook Pro design.
Beyond Macs:
The leak isn't just about Macs. It also hints at the AirTag 2 (B589) and the second-generation Apple Studio display (J427 and J527). The next AirTags promise improved tracking capabilities.
Home Hub and iPad Revelations:
The code also mentions the long-anticipated Apple Home Hub, with identifiers J491 and J490 for mounted and base versions, respectively. Additionally, two new iPad models are on the horizon: the iPad 12 (J581 and J582) and the M4 iPad Air in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes (model numbers J707, J708, J737, and J738).
Upcoming iPhones:
The iOS 26 code provides insights into unreleased iPhones, including the iPhone 17e (V159), the delayed iPhone Air 2 (V62), and the iPhone 18 series (iPhone 18 Pro Max with identifiers V63 and V64).
The iPhone Fold:
The much-discussed iPhone Fold is also in the mix, aligning with a previous leak that used the identifier V68.
Apple Watch and Vision Pro:
Two new Apple Watch models, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 (N240) and Apple Watch Series 11 (N237 and N238), were spotted in the leak. Regarding the Apple Vision Pro, the software hints at a second-generation headset (N109) and a lighter model (N100) in development.
AR Glasses and Smart Glasses:
Apple's AR glasses project, rumored to be scrapped, is referenced as N421, while Mac-connected smart glasses are N107. Apple's foray into smart glasses, possibly competing with Meta Ray-Bans, is listed as N50, now reportedly known as N401.
Mysteries Remain:
Several unidentified products (J190, J226, J349, N110, N209, N216) are also mentioned. Products starting with 'J' are not Macs, leaving their nature open to speculation, from iPads and displays to robotics.
Wearable Speculations:
Based on naming conventions, N110, N209, and N209 are likely wearables, possibly related to the Apple Vision Pro or Apple Watch.
But here's where it gets controversial: is this level of transparency beneficial for Apple's product strategy? Do leaks like this impact consumer behavior and expectations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
