Apple’s year-end roadmap appears packed with six product updates rumored to land before Christmas. Even though the iPhone 17 has already hit the shelves, Apple reportedly has bigger plans in the works for the remainder of the year. Here’s what to watch for as 2025 draws to a close, based on current whispers and leaks from industry sources.
1. iPad Pro with a new engine
Rumors point to an iPad Pro equipped with a brand-new M5 chip, signaling a notable performance boost even if the chassis remains largely familiar. A recent unboxing video from a well-known YouTube channel shows a design that closely mirrors the current iPad Pro, including the slim profile, speakers, and camera setup. The most conspicuous clue is the absence of a model name on the back in the clip, which could indicate a testing unit or a minimalist design direction. Don’t expect a revolution in the exterior; expect stronger processing power, faster graphics, and a touch more memory. A fresh look might come later, but the emphasis this year seems to be on guts over glam.
2. A faster Apple TV 4K
The next Apple TV 4K is said to be in the works, bringing an A19 processor and more RAM. The upgrade would deliver snappier menus, smoother app transitions, and improved performance for games and Apple’s AI initiatives. For homes looking to future-proof their living room, this could be a meaningful step up in responsiveness and capability without changing the fundamental experience that users already know.
3. HomePod evolution: big or small?
Apple’s speakers have been quiet on updates for a while, and the market has moved on with smarter assistants and more capable audio devices. The rumor mill suggests a HomePod refresh—either a larger model to compete with premium smart speakers or a compact mini version to broaden the lineup. Either way, a new HomePod before the year ends would satisfy users who want stronger audio performance or a tighter integration with iOS devices and HomeKit.
4. AirTag 2: locating things faster
AirTag is expected to get a notable upgrade with a new U2 chip, which could translate into improved precision and longer effective range. For anyone who frequently misplaces keys, bags, or even bicycles, AirTag 2 promises quicker, more reliable tracking and a more seamless user experience in the Find My network. If the rumor holds, this could be one of the most practical, widely used updates of the season.
5. A MacBook powered by iPhone chips
Apple is also weighing a new, more affordable MacBook powered by an A-series chip—the same family of processors that drives iPhones. The idea is to deliver a lower price point and better battery life while preserving core Apple performance. While this could mean less raw power compared to high-end Macs, it would make Apple’s ecosystem more accessible to students and casual users who value long battery life and a familiar software experience.
6. What else could be behind the curtain?
Apple is known for tossing in a surprise or two when year-end announcements roll around. Possible wildcards include new Beats headphones, a fresh smart-home gadget, or another accessory that subtly expands Apple’s ecosystem. If Apple closes 2025 with a late surprise, December could become far more interesting than expected for tech enthusiasts and everyday users alike.
Bottom line: even with the iPhone 17 making waves, Apple appears to have a busy slate of hardware updates and potential new devices queued up for the rest of the year. Whether you’re chasing power, portability, or practical everyday improvements, there should be something in Apple’s pipeline to sparkle your tech world as 2025 nears its end.
