Apple plans to release new entry-level 5G iPhones and iPads in early March

On February 5, according to foreign media reports, sources revealed that Apple plans to launch a cheap version of the iPhone that supports 5G networks at the product launch conference held in early March this year, and upgrade the iPad Air.

It is reported that Apple plans to hold the first product launch conference of 2022 around March 8, when it will launch a new iPhone SE that supports 5G networks and an upgraded iPad Air.

This will be Apple's first major product launch since the release of the new MacBook Pro last October. People familiar with the matter said that as with the way Apple has recently released other products, the conference will still be held online rather than on-site.

Apple's just-released holiday shopping season results far exceeded Wall Street expectations, dispelling concerns that supply chain issues could affect Apple's results. Apple also set its 2022 performance target higher. The new product launch in March and a series of new products launched later indicate that Apple will embark on the largest product upgrade ever this year.

People familiar with the matter said that considering that there is still nearly a month to go before the launch, Apple's plan to push new products may be adjusted due to production delays or other changes. An Apple spokesperson declined to comment on the company's plans.

Apple's upcoming new phone will be the first major upgrade in the two years since the launch of the iPhone SE series of smartphones, with devices that will add 5G network capabilities, improved cameras, and come with faster processors, but the phone's exterior design hasn't changed much.

The upgraded iPad Air will also have a faster processor and support for 5G networks. People familiar with the matter said that Apple also plans to launch a new Mac computer equipped with Apple's self-developed chip, which may be available as early as March this year.

In addition to releasing new devices, Apple also plans to launch iOS 15.4 in the first half of March, people familiar with the matter said. This update will enhance facial recognition for iPhones and iPads, making it easier for users wearing masks to unlock their devices. iOS 15.4 also added new emojis and Universal Control features that allow users to control multiple iPads and Macs with a single set of keyboards and touch devices.

Following the march launch, Apple is likely to hold its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June to announce a series of software updates involving the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. Apple is also expected to host several events in the fall, mainly the release of the iPhone 14 and new Mac computers.

Apple's planned releases for 2022 could include new iMac and Mac Pro desktops, a redesigned MacBook Air, a cheap version of the MacBook Pro with upgraded features, plus three Apple Watches, four iPhone 14 series smartphones, and a new AirPods headset. Apple also plans to roll out new features such as iPhone direct support for credit card payments.

Apple is also working on a high-end mixed reality device, most likely released in 2023. It was reported last month that Apple had planned to release the device as early as the end of 2022, but the development problems affected the original release plan. (Kyaukhan)