Khaberni - Despite the record successes achieved by Apple at the end of 2025, including the "unprecedented" demand for the "iPhone 17" series, according to CEO Tim Cook, the expected challenges could make 2026 one of the most complicated years in the company's history.
In December of this year, John Giannandrea, the former head of the company's artificial intelligence department, left his position after the postponement of the new version of "Siri", at a time when companies like "OpenAI" and "Google Gemini" are advancing rapidly, according to "Thomas Jayd".
Meta has attracted the famous designer Alan Day, while Apple still suffers from weak demand for the expensive "Vision Pro" glasses.
A difficult year
About this, analyst Carolina Milanesi from "Creative Strategies" says: "I don't think 2026 will be a disastrous year for Apple, but it will definitely be more difficult than 2025, especially if the company does not fulfill its promises in artificial intelligence".
What does Apple plan for next year?
According to industry leaks and expert analyses, the company is preparing to launch five products that could be pivotal in its history, which are:
1- "iPhone Fold".. the first foldable phone from them
After years of anticipation, it seems that Apple is finally preparing to launch its first foldable phone in 2026, and despite being behind Samsung, which is preparing for the eighth generation of "Galaxy Z Fold", IDC expects Apple to quickly seize more than 20% of the foldable phone market.
The bet is simple, as specialized journalist Jason Snell says: "I won't be surprised if the iPhone Fold becomes the bestseller, simply because it's an iPhone".
Leaks indicate that the awaited device will come with a 5.5-inch external screen, and a 7.8-inch wrinkle-free internal screen, with a huge battery and an ultra-slim design, at a price that may reach $2400, a figure that seems undeterred for Apple customers looking for distinction.
2- Low-cost MacBook
Apple is also reportedly preparing to launch an economical MacBook starting at $599, a move targeting the competition from Windows and Chromebook devices.
The device will come with a 13-inch screen and an A18 Pro processor used in iPhones, with a clear focus on daily performance and long battery life.
Analyst Avi Greengart believes that Apple could benefit from its superiority in processor manufacturing and memory integration to offer unmatched price value.
3- HomePod Touch
A brand-new product that might debut in spring 2026, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen and a new operating system known as "homeOS".
The device will combine the functions of a home assistant and a smart display, with essential applications and interactive tools.
At an expected price of $350, Apple bets on privacy and trust to carve a leading position in a market dominated by Amazon and Google, given the success of the new "Siri".
4- Apple Smart Glasses
After the commercial failure of the "Vision Pro" glasses, Apple is preparing to launch smart glasses relying on artificial intelligence, voice, and camera, initially without a screen, aiming to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses and Android XR.
Yet, the challenge remains significant, as competitors have made substantial strides, especially in integrating AI with practical and appealing use cases.
5- The new Siri... the last bet
The success of all these products remains contingent on the launch of a revolutionary version of Siri in spring 2026.
In this regard, Apple has promised much and partially failed, so what is now required is to provide a smart assistant that understands context, executes commands within apps, and interacts smoothly with the user's life.
