Apple’s March 4 ‘Special Experience’ Event: iPhone 17e, New iPads, and Affordable MacBook on the Horizon

Apple has announced a “Special Apple Experience” event scheduled for March 4th, taking place in New York, London, and Shanghai. While Apple hasn’t detailed the event’s focus, rumors suggest the unveiling of the iPhone 17e, refreshed iPad models, and a potentially more affordable MacBook.

iPhone 17e: A Successor to the Affordable iPhone Line

The iPhone 17e is widely expected to be a key announcement at the event. It will likely succeed the iPhone 16e, which debuted last year as a more accessible option within Apple’s iPhone family, starting at $599 for the 128GB model – $100 less than the base iPhone 16 and $200 less than the standard iPhone 17 . Rumored specifications for the iPhone 17e include:

• A19 Chip: Expected to deliver faster performance and improved energy efficiency.
• Apple C1X Modem: Designed for enhanced 5G and LTE connectivity, offering two times faster speeds than the C1 modem .
• N1 Chip: Aimed at improving the performance and reliability of features like Personal Hotspot and AirDrop .
• MagSafe Support: The iPhone 17e is expected to include MagSafe wireless charging compatibility.
• 48MP Main Camera: Likely to retain the 48MP camera from the previous model.
• 6.1-inch OLED Display: Expected to maintain the same 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate.
• Bar Notch: The iPhone 17e is anticipated to feature a traditional notch rather than the Dynamic Island found on higher-end models.

A More Affordable MacBook on the Way?

Apple may also unveil a new, more affordable MacBook at the event. This potential “budget” MacBook is rumored to be powered by an A18 processor – the same chip found in the iPhone 16 . Other speculated features include:

• 13-inch Display: A slightly smaller display size compared to the current MacBook Air.
• LC Screen: The more affordable model may utilize a lower-cost LC (Liquid Crystal) screen.
• Variety of Colors: The new MacBook could be available in a range of bright colors.

iPad Updates Also Expected

Alongside the iPhone and MacBook announcements, Apple may also showcase updated iPad models, including a refreshed iPad and iPad Air . Rumors also suggest potential updates to the Apple TV streaming box, an external monitor, and the HomePod mini.

Event Details

The “Special Apple Experience” event will be held on March 4th at 9 a.m. ET in New York City. Apple has not announced whether the event will be livestreamed .