Apple Celebrates 50 Years with Alicia Keys Performance and New Product Launches

Apple is marking its 50th anniversary with celebrations around the globe, kicking off with a special performance by Alicia Keys at Apple Grand Central in New York City on March 13, 2026. The milestone is likewise coinciding with the release of several new products and a look ahead to future innovations, including a potential foldable iPhone and advancements in Apple Intelligence.

50th Anniversary Kickoff with Alicia Keys

Seventeen-time Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys launched Apple’s 50th-anniversary celebrations with a live performance at Apple Grand Central. Apple Newsroom reports that Keys performed a set of her classic songs from the venue’s iconic steps. The event was attended by Apple CEO Tim Cook and several senior executives. AppleInsider described the event as turning the Apple Store into a piano stage.

Tim Cook shared his enthusiasm on X, calling the afternoon in New York “unforgettable” and thanking Alicia Keys for her performance.

Throughout the month, Apple will continue to commemorate the anniversary with events highlighting human creativity and ingenuity, showcasing the capabilities of Apple products. The company also launched a new Instagram account, “Hello Apple,” to share news, stories and product marketing.

New Products Available

Seven new Apple products announced last week became available on Wednesday, March 12, 2026, at Apple Stores and for customer delivery. These include the recently announced colorful MacBook Neo and other new devices. Availability varies by location, and customers are encouraged to check stock online.

Future Innovations on the Horizon

Looking ahead, Apple is planning several significant product launches, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. These include:

• Foldable iPhone: Apple’s first foldable iPhone, expected to be priced at $2,000 or more, will offer an iPad mini-sized display and support for running two iPhone apps side-by-side. It will run iOS, but with features adapted for the larger screen, including revamped apps with sidebars. However, it will not have the full multitasking capabilities of iPadOS or support iPad-optimized apps.
• AirPods Pro: Higher-end AirPods Pro equipped with infrared cameras.
• MacBook Pro: A premium MacBook Pro with a touchscreen OLED display, potentially positioned above the current MacBook Pro models.
• ‘Ultra’ Devices: At least three new “Ultra”-class devices are planned for release this year.

Apple ‘HomePad’ and Apple Intelligence

Apple’s upcoming “HomePad” is reportedly being developed with a magnetic snap-to-wall feature and integration with doorbell systems. The device is expected to be heavily reliant on Apple Intelligence. However, due to ongoing delays with the enhanced Siri powered by Apple Intelligence, the HomePad’s launch may be delayed until fall 2026. Updated Apple TV and HomePod models may also be affected by these delays.

iOS 26.4 Beta Updates

Apple continues testing iOS 26.4, with the latest beta update adding new emoji characters and support for the iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air.

A new book chronicling the history of Apple over its first 50 years has also been released by journalist David Pogue.