Apple’s Upcoming Devices: Slimmer iPhones, OLED iPads, and smarter HomePods

Apple is gearing up for exciting launches in the coming years, introducing slimmer iPhones, advanced iPads, smarter HomePods, and innovative features across its product lineup. Here’s what we know about these upcoming devices:

iPhone 17 Air: Slimmest iPhone Yet

Apple is reportedly working on the iPhone 17 Air, which could be its thinnest smartphone ever. According to analyst Mark Gurman, the iPhone 17 Air may be 2mm thinner than the current iPhone 16 Pro. The iPhone 16 Pro is 8.25mm thick, suggesting the new Air model could measure just 6.25mm. This sleek design is possible due to a tightly integrated next-gen 5G modem and other internal components.

• Key Highlights:
  • Thinner by 1.55mm than the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus.
  • Slimmer design accommodates a battery, display, and camera system.
  • New 5G modem to debut in mid-tier models like the iPhone SE before reaching high-end devices.

Despite its thinner profile, performance is expected to remain solid for everyday users, though the modem may not match the high-end models’ power.

OLED iPads and MacBooks by 2026

Apple plans to introduce OLED technology to more devices, starting with the iPad Mini as early as 2026. According to market research by Omdia, Apple will also expand OLED use to iPad Air and MacBook Pro models.

• Expected Features:
  • iPad Mini (2026): Single-stack 60Hz OLED displays.
  • MacBook Pro (2026): 120Hz two-stack OLED panels for better brightness and durability.
  • MacBook Air (2028): Single-stack 120Hz OLED panels.
  • Foldable Device (2028): 18.8-inch screen with a 120Hz panel.

The move to OLED ensures better contrast, deeper blacks, faster response times, and improved viewing angles, enhancing the display experience for users.

HomePod with OLED Display

Apple’s next-generation HomePod is set to feature a 6-7 inch OLED screen, supplied by Chinese display manufacturer Tianma. Expected in 2025, this HomePod will focus more on smart home functionality.

• Rumored Features:
  • Potential integration of an iPad-like display or a robotic arm-mounted screen.
  • Enhanced capabilities for managing smart home devices.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hints at additional HomePod variants, while other reports suggest Apple might release a broader range of smart-home hubs in the future.

iPhone SE 4: Affordable Yet Advanced

The upcoming iPhone SE 4, set to launch in early 2025, will bring significant upgrades. It will feature a 48MP rear camera and a 12MP front-facing TrueDepth camera, similar to current flagship models.

• Specifications:
  • Design: All-display front resembling the iPhone 14.
  • Display: 6.06-inch OLED with Face ID.
  • Processor: First to use Apple-designed 5G chips.
  • Battery: Same as the iPhone 14 with 8GB RAM for improved performance.

Priced around $400, the iPhone SE 4 is expected to offer a high-quality experience at a budget-friendly price.

iPhone 18 Pro: A Pricey Upgrade

Looking ahead to 2026, Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro could see a significant price hike due to the adoption of 2nm chips, which cost $35 more per unit to produce than the current 3nm chips.

• Benefits of 2nm Chips:
  • Smaller transistors allow for faster speeds and better energy efficiency.
  • Expected to be exclusive to Pro models initially.

Analysts predict this shift will likely increase consumer prices by at least $50, aligning with Apple’s profit margins.

The Future of iPhones and Beyond

While the iPhone 17 lineup is shaping up to include the new Air model and potentially replace the iPhone 16 Plus, innovations like under-screen Face ID and variable aperture lenses for the iPhone 18 remain speculative. Regardless, Apple’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and refined design ensures its future devices will continue to lead the market.

Apple’s roadmap reflects its focus on slimmer, smarter, and more efficient devices, pushing the boundaries of technology while delivering premium user experiences.