iPhone

Apple’s press event is around the corner, with rumors of a new MacBook making an appearance

Here’s what we should expect from the event.

by
Bryan M. Wolfe
August 17, 2018

Image: Apple

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In just over a week, tech reporters from around the world will probably receive an email from Apple welcoming them to Cupertino for a special press event just after Labor Day in the United States. Like they always do, this invitation will include clues on what’s likely to be discussed at the event. And yes, for days, those clues will be examined and debated online to determine what it all means.

This year, however, I’d make an argument that the tea leaves have long ago determined which new products are arriving from the iPhone maker this fall. The rumor mill, after all, has been churning out the same information for months.

Take the latest report from DigiTimes, which mentions the same insight we’ve received from other sites in recent weeks, and in many cases, months. The Taiwanese site offers four, often-recycled main nuggets:

This year’s 12-inch MacBook will feature Intel’s Kaby Lake processor and ship at around $1,200 for the entry-level model. This is $100 less than what Apple charges for the current model, which was launched in June 2017.
Two new iPad Pro models are launching soon. These include a third-generation 12.9-inch model and all-new 11-inch model that’s replacing the 2017 10.5-inch model. Both new tablets should support Facebook and feature a nearly bezel-less design.

In addition to those two, it goes on to mention three new iPhones (already well known) and a release of the AirPower charging mat that was first announced in 2017. According to DigiTimes, that could still be a year away.

From the report, the biggest takeaway here is the new MacBook. It will be interesting to see how this plays out and if the rumors hold true. After so many issues with recent MacBooks, Cupertino could use a win in that category.

Looking for more? Apple’s also expected to reveal a new Apple Watch and next-generation iMac and Mac mini devices too.

The biggest unknown at this point isn’t so much which new devices Apple plans on announcing, but rather when. Will it hold one event in September and another in October as it did years ago? Or will it stick to one September event early in the month as it has done most recently? My best bet: It’s going to cram everything into one press event and many press releases, rather than hold two events.

Where do you stand? Tell us your thoughts below.

Here are some other Apple headlines: