Apple’s Upcoming Releases: Affordable MacBook and Enhanced Studio Displays Unveiled
Recent discoveries within the macOS 26.3 codebase have unveiled codenames hinting at three forthcoming Apple products: a budget-friendly MacBook and two new Studio Display models. These findings, reported by Filipe Espósito of Macworld, align with earlier insights from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, suggesting that Apple is preparing to expand its hardware lineup.
Decoding the Codenames
The macOS 26.3 source code reveals the following codenames:
– J700: This is believed to correspond to a new, lower-cost MacBook.
– J427: This codename likely represents an updated Studio Display.
– J527: This is thought to denote a higher-end version of the Studio Display.
These codenames have appeared in previous software updates, including macOS 26.2 and iOS 18.5, indicating that these products are progressing toward release.
Anticipated Product Launches
The lower-cost MacBook is expected to be unveiled during a series of product announcements in the first week of March. Media outlets are anticipated to have hands-on sessions with the new laptop during the Apple Experience events scheduled in New York, London, and Shanghai on March 4 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
The new Studio Displays are projected to be released in the first half of 2026. However, it remains uncertain whether they will be part of the March announcements.
Lower-Cost MacBook: What to Expect
The upcoming budget-friendly MacBook is rumored to be powered by a variant of the iPhone 16 Pro’s A18 Pro chip, diverging from the traditional M-series chips used in MacBooks. It is expected to feature a 12.9-inch display and come equipped with 8GB of RAM. The laptop will reportedly be available in vibrant colors such as yellow, green, blue, and pink. Pricing estimates suggest a starting range between $599 and $799 in the United States.
This model is anticipated to revive the MacBook brand, positioning it below the MacBook Air in Apple’s lineup. Apple previously offered a 12-inch MacBook from 2015 to 2019, and this new release appears to be a modern iteration aimed at budget-conscious consumers.
Enhanced Studio Displays: Features and Specifications
At least one of the new Studio Display models is rumored to feature a 27-inch screen with mini-LED backlighting, offering improved brightness and contrast ratios. It may support refresh rates up to 90Hz or 120Hz and include HDR support. The display is expected to be powered by an A19 or A19 Pro chip, enhancing performance and enabling advanced features.
The current Studio Display, launched in March 2022, features a 27-inch screen without mini-LED backlighting, a 5K resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and up to 600 nits brightness. It also includes a built-in camera and speakers, one Thunderbolt 3 port, and three USB-C ports, with pricing starting at $1,599 in the U.S.
The introduction of mini-LED technology and higher refresh rates in the new models would mark a significant upgrade, catering to professionals seeking superior display performance.
Conclusion
The revelations from the macOS 26.3 code suggest that Apple is poised to expand its product offerings with a more affordable MacBook and enhanced Studio Displays. These developments indicate Apple’s commitment to diversifying its hardware portfolio and catering to a broader range of consumers.
