5 most anticipated Apple devices set to release in early 2025
2025 is already close, and it looks like Apple will start it with several impressive product launches.
The leading Apple news site 9to5Mac reports on five new products expected at the beginning of 2025.
M4 MacBook Air
Apple's most popular Mac is preparing for its next update. The new MacBook Air is expected to launch in early 2025 with the following features:
- M4 chip;
- 16 GB RAM standard;
- Nano-texture display option;
- 12MP Center Stage camera;
- Likely improved battery performance due to the M4 chip
- The same design in 13-inch and 15-inch versions
Overall, this will be a worthy update for the MacBook Air. As for the timing, the launch will most likely take place in March - just as the MacBook Air with M3 was released in early 2024.
iPhone SE 4
Apple's next iPhone will be a device suitable for most buyers. The new iPhone SE 4 is expected to launch in March.
Key features of the new iPhone SE:
- iPhone 14-style design with an OLED display and no Home button;
- Face ID and a notch;
- A18 chip just added to iPhone 16;
- Apple Intelligence support, available only for 16 and 15 Pro models;
- 8 GB of RAM;
- 48 MP main camera, likely similar to the iPhone 16's camera;
- USB-C port;
- The first ever 5G modem developed by Apple.
All of this at an affordable price, likely under $499.
Smart display 'HomePad'
One of Apple's most anticipated products will be a smart display called 'HomePad.'
Mark Gurman describes this product as a new milestone in the Home lineup. According to Gurman, the main features of the device will be:
- Focus on Siri, communications, and smart home control;
- Support for Safari, Music, Notes, and several other Apple apps, but no access to the App Store
- The device is touch-sensitive, but the primary emphasis is on voice control through new App Intents in Apple Intelligence;
- The new operating system combines elements of watchOS and iOS in StandBy mode; the dynamic interface adapts depending on the user's distance;
- Its size is roughly equivalent to two iPhones placed side by side, with a 6-inch screen;
- The device is equipped with speakers, a FaceTime camera, and a battery;
- Apple is developing wall attachments as well as a speaker base for tables, kitchens, and nightstands;
- Enhanced security features and the ability for video calling/audio intercom with other smart home devices;
- The main screen is customized with the classic Apple widgets and Home controls;
- Support for video doorbells, surveillance cameras, and security event notifications.
Gurman suggests that 'HomePad' will be released in March, although the launch could be postponed to a later date.
Smart display 'HomePad' (photo: 9to5Mac)
11th-generation iPad
After an almost empty 2023 for iPads, it was expected that Apple would update its entire iPad lineup in 2024. New iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini models were released, but the basic iPad remained unchanged.
In early 2025, the iPad will be updated to the 11th generation. Details about the new device are still scarce, but it is expected to include:
- A faster A-series chip;
- Likely 8 GB of RAM with Apple Intelligence support;
- A new networking chip for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth from Apple
Essentially, it will be a standard update for the most affordable iPad.
Predictions: Apple Watch SE 3, iPad Air with M3, Smart Home products
Apple may release several other products in the first half of 2025:
Apple Watch SE 3
The last Apple Watch SE was released in 2022. The SE 3 was initially expected to launch in September 2024, but the device was not introduced. It will likely be released in March or April, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone SE 4.
iPad Air with M3
The current iPad Air with the M2 chip was released in May 2024, but rumors indicate a quick update to the M3 chip. The launch could happen in May, but the exact dates are still unknown.
HomePod mini 2 and New Apple TV 4K
Although there are no rumors about launch dates, it is logical to assume that their release could be tied to the HomePad launch as part of Apple's new smart home strategy.
Apple's plans can always change, but if these five or more products appear at the beginning of 2025, it will be an especially powerful start to the year for the company. All of this will lay the groundwork for an exciting WWDC and fall product launches.