Apple March 4 Event: Affordable MacBook and More Expected

Apple has officially announced its first major event of 2026. The Cupertino-based technology giant will host a special launch event on March 4. Unlike traditional keynote presentations held at Apple Park, this event will simultaneously take place in New York, London, and Shanghai.

The multi-city format has sparked significant speculation, with industry insiders suggesting that Apple could finally unveil its long-rumoured affordable MacBook. However, reports indicate that several additional product launches may also be part of the lineup.

Event Invitation Hints at New Design Direction

Apple has sent invitations to selected media representatives for what it calls a “special Apple experience.” The invite features the Apple logo rendered in a layered 3D glass aesthetic, showcasing a refreshed visual identity.

According to a news agency, the logo’s colours—light green, yellow, and blue—match shades that Apple has reportedly been testing for its low-cost MacBook variant. The design hint has further strengthened speculation that a colourful, budget-friendly MacBook could headline the event.

When Is the Apple March 4 Event?

Apple March Event Date and Time

The invitation confirms that Apple will host the event on March 4, 2026, at 9 am ET (7:30 pm IST).

Global Simultaneous Launch

The event will occur simultaneously in:

• New York

• London

• Shanghai

Viewers worldwide are expected to access the livestream through Apple’s official website or YouTube channel.

What to Expect From the March Apple Event

Apple is reportedly preparing multiple product announcements. Below are the most anticipated launches.

Affordable MacBook

Long-Awaited Budget MacBook

Apple has been developing a more affordable MacBook for some time. Industry reports suggest the device may finally debut at this event.

Expected Specifications

The rumoured budget MacBook could feature:

• A18 Pro chipset (currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro)

• 12.9-inch LCD display

• Bright colour options such as blue, yellow, and pink

MacBook Expected Price

The device may be priced at around $599 (roughly Rs 54,000) in the United States.

If accurate, this would position the MacBook as one of Apple’s most competitively priced laptops, potentially expanding its reach to students and emerging markets.

MacBook Pro With M5 Pro and M5 Max

In addition to the budget model, Apple is expected to introduce refreshed MacBook Pro models powered by M5 Pro and M5 Max chipsets. These next-generation Apple Silicon chips are likely to deliver improved performance and energy efficiency, building on the company’s in-house ARM-based architecture.

A new Apple Studio Display and an upgraded Mac desktop may also be announced.

iPhone 17e

Successor to iPhone 16e

Apple may also unveil the next-generation e-series smartphone, the iPhone 17e.

Expected Upgrades

Compared to the iPhone 16e, the iPhone 17e is expected to include:

• A19 chipset

• MagSafe support

• Slimmer front bezels

However, reports suggest the camera system and display notch design may remain unchanged.

New iPads on the Horizon

iPad Air With M4 Chip

The iPad Air is expected to receive the M4 chipset upgrade. While performance may improve significantly, the device’s design is likely to remain largely unchanged.

12th Generation iPad

Apple may also introduce the 12th generation iPad, potentially powered by the A18 chipset from the iPhone 16 lineup.

These updates would align with Apple’s broader strategy of gradually transitioning more devices to its latest silicon platforms.

Siri Upgrades and AI Developments

Although Apple has reportedly delayed the launch of a fully redesigned Siri, improvements to the virtual assistant are still anticipated.

iOS 26.4 and AI Integration

Apple may roll out iOS 26.4 with enhancements to Siri’s capabilities. Reports suggest the updated assistant could run on Google Gemini as part of a billion-dollar agreement between Apple and Google.

If confirmed, this would mark a significant shift in Apple’s AI strategy, potentially enhancing conversational intelligence and contextual understanding.

Strategic Significance of the March 4 Event

Apple’s decision to host a multi-city event reflects its increasingly global product strategy. With growing competition in AI, laptops, and smartphones, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for consumer technology.

A more affordable MacBook could help Apple compete more aggressively in price-sensitive markets, while upgraded Macs and AI improvements would reinforce its premium ecosystem.

Conclusion

Apple’s March 4 event is shaping up to be one of the most important launches of early 2026. From a potential Rs 54,000 MacBook to upgraded MacBook Pro models, new iPads, and AI-driven Siri enhancements, the company appears ready to expand both accessibility and performance across its product lineup.

While official confirmations will come during the event, current reports suggest Apple is balancing affordability with innovation—an approach that could redefine its position in both emerging and premium markets.

All eyes will now be on March 4 to see which of these anticipated products make their official debut.