Apple CEO Tim Cook promised a “big week” of product announcements, and the company delivered. The tech giant introduced a new budget-friendly iPhone, an entry-level MacBook, refreshed iPad Air models, upgraded MacBook Pro chipsets, and new Studio Display monitors. All products were showcased at hands-on media events held on Wednesday in New York, London, and Shanghai.
The announcement follows Apple’s record quarterly earnings, driven by strong sales of its iPhone 17 lineup. However, the company is yet to fulfil its 2024 promise to enhance Siri with AI capabilities. Looking to build on its sales momentum, Apple began the week by unveiling the iPhone 17e and the all-new MacBook Neo, its most aggressive move yet into the affordable laptop market.
All newly announced products will be available for preorder starting next Wednesday.
iPhone 17e: Affordable iPhone with A19 chip and 48MP camera
The iPhone 17e is Apple’s updated budget-focused smartphone, aimed at cost-conscious buyers.
Key Features:
- Powered by the same A19 chip as the base iPhone 17
- 256GB standard storage (double the 128GB offered in the iPhone 16e)
- Upgraded 48MP camera system
- C1X modem for faster cellular speeds
- Slightly smaller display than the base iPhone 17
- Lower refresh rate and slightly reduced brightness
- Super Retina display
- Ceramic Shield 2 protection
- MagSafe with Qi2 support
iPhone 17e Price in India:
- Starts at Rs 64,900
- Rs 18,000 cheaper than the base iPhone 17
- Available in Black, White, and Light Pink
iPad Air M4: More RAM, same price
The refreshed iPad Air now runs on the M4 chip. While the top-end iPad Pro uses the newer M5 chip, the M4 still delivers strong performance for streaming, browsing, email, and video editing.
Cellular variants also feature the updated C1X modem for improved connectivity.
Notably, Apple has increased RAM from 8GB to 12GB without raising prices.
iPad Air M4 price in India:
- 11-inch model: Rs 64,900 (128GB storage)
- 13-inch model: Rs 84,900 (128GB storage)
MacBook Pro upgraded with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips
Apple’s high-end MacBook Pro lineup now features the newly announced M5 Pro and M5 Max chipsets, promising improved performance and battery efficiency for demanding tasks.
14-inch MacBook Pro:
- M5 Pro chip
- 24GB RAM
- 1TB storage
- Upgrade options for higher-tier M5 Pro or M5 Max
- RAM expandable up to 48GB
16-inch MacBook Pro:
- Highest-tier M5 Pro chip (standard)
- 24GB RAM
- 1TB storage
- Starting price: Rs 2,99,900
- Optional M5 Max upgrade
The display and front camera remain unchanged. However, both models now support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.
MacBook Neo: Apple’s new budget laptop
The newly introduced MacBook Neo marks Apple’s strongest push into the affordable laptop segment.
Specifications:
- 13-inch display
- A18 Pro chip (also used in iPhone 16 Pro)
- 256GB storage
- Two USB-C ports
- 8GB RAM
The upgraded 512GB variant includes a Touch ID sensor.
MacBook Neo Price in India:
- 256GB model: Rs 69,900
- 512GB model: Rs 79,900
- Students and educators can preorder with a Rs 10,000 discount
MacBook Air refreshed with base M5 chip
Apple also updated the MacBook Air with its base M5 chip.
What’s new:
- Storage doubled from 256GB to 512GB
- 16GB RAM retained
- Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support
MacBook Air M5 price:
- 13-inch model: Rs 1,19,900 (USD 100 more than M4 Air)
- 15-inch model: Rs 1,44,900
Studio Display and Studio Display XDR: 5K monitors with 120Hz option
Apple concluded its announcement with two new 27-inch 5K monitors: the Studio Display and Studio Display XDR.
Common features:
- 5,120 x 2,880 resolution
- 12MP Centre Stage camera
- Six-speaker audio system
- Two Thunderbolt 5 ports
- Two USB-C ports
Studio Display XDR enhancements:
- Mini-LED backlighting
- Improved contrast and dimming zones
- 120Hz refresh rate (standard model capped at 60Hz)
Studio Display prices in India:
- Studio Display: Rs 1,89,900
- Studio Display XDR: Rs 3,99,900
Upgrade options are available for both models.
ALSO READ: iPhone 17e vs iPhone 16e: Price, performance, display and key differences explained
