The start of the year is usually quite slow for Apple. The company rarely releases new hardware in January, and the OS updates that arrive within the first few weeks are usually versions that make only very minor changes, with larger releases planned for the spring.
Apple will likely follow the same pattern in 2026. There's an outside chance of some new hardware arriving, but while some lagging releases could arrive this month, we think Apple will wait until March or April to release its first round of major new hardware. And since the OS 26.3 releases seem like relatively minor updates, Apple Arcade and Apple TV give us something to really look forward to.
New equipment releases
The last time Apple released new hardware was in January 2023, when we received updated versions of the M2 Pro/Max for the Mac mini and MacBook Pro. You'd have to go back a decade to find another January Apple hardware release, and it was just the third-generation Apple TV.
Interestingly, these are the products that are rumored to be available in early 2026. Apple was expected to release a new Apple TV 4K in 2025, but it never arrived, while the M5 MacBook Pro was released without an M5 or M5 Max variant. So it's possible that Apple will decide to release them this month. Besides, we're still waiting updated HomePod mini and AirTag 2nd generation. Thus, Apple may have a number of minor updates in January.
One of the main products that may appear at the beginning of the year is inexpensive MacBook It is rumored to debut in the first half of the year. In past years, this would have been a godsend for Macworld's January San Francisco show, but we think it'll likely show up – along with some other hardware – later in the spring.
Applications and software updates
Apple's 26.3 update list is currently in beta, and in past years the x.3 release was typically released in late January or early February.
So far this is a rather timid update. iOS 26.3 lays the foundation for EU-mandated iOS features such as forwarding notifications to third-party hardware and a setup procedure that makes it easier to switch between iPhone and Android phones (again, subject to EU mandates).
We're really looking forward to the 26.4 updates – that's when, if the rumors are true, we'll get a completely new Siri that's smarter, more conversational, and has significantly expanded capabilities.
Services
Apple TV+
Here are the shows, series and movies we plan to release on Apple TV+ in TC. If you want to know what's coming next, visit our a complete guide to upcoming Apple TV+ content.
Tehran (season 3): A Mossad hacker infiltrates Tehran under an assumed name. Having gone rogue at the end of season two and reeling from the loss of her closest allies, season three requires Tamar to find a way to reinvent herself and win back the Mossad's support if she is to survive. January 9
Hijacking (season 2): The second season of Hijack takes Sam Nelson from the sky to a subway train in Berlin. January 14
Drops of God (season 2): In Season 2 of “God Drop,” Camille and Issei face their most dangerous challenge yet: uncovering the origins of the world's greatest wine, a mystery so deep that even their legendary father, Alexandre Léger, couldn't solve it. January 21
Cut (Season 3): One of Apple TV's best shows returns for a third season, following a grieving therapist who breaks the rules while trying to get his life back on track. January 28
Yo Gabba GabbaLand! (season 2): Join familiar friends Muno, Fufa, Plex, Broby and Toody and meet the new wizard Cammy Cam. Dance, sing, play and make learning fun as kids and parents jump into Yo Gabba GabbaLand and discover everything that makes this community so magical. January 30
Apple arcade
Apple releases most Apple Arcade games on the first Friday of every month. Check out our Apple Arcade FAQ for a complete list of Apple Arcade games and more information about the service. Sometimes games are released without advance warning, but usually you'll see next month's releases listed in the “Coming Soon” section.
Real Skate+: Use your fingers just like you would on a real skateboard in this realistic first-person skateboarding simulator. January 8
Cozy caravan: Create an adorable animal and set off on an adventure in your little caravan. January 8
Strike Potion 2+: Fantasy cooking mini-games. January 8
Sago Mini Jinji Garden: A cozy gardening game for all ages starring the Sago Mini Friends characters. January 8
