Apple Spring Event: Shanghai Launch, M5 Chip & iPhone 17e Rumors

Apple confirmed Monday it will host a “Special Experience” event on March 4, 2026, simultaneously in New York, London, and Shanghai. This marks the first time Apple has chosen China to stage a spring product launch, according to invitations sent to media.

The event, scheduled for 9 a.m. Eastern Time, will be held in New York City, London, and Shanghai, offering media representatives hands-on access to upcoming products. While Apple has characterized the event as an “experience” rather than a traditional product launch, industry analysts anticipate updates across several product lines, including iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.

Speculation centers on the potential unveiling of a MacBook Pro powered by Apple’s next-generation M5 chip, with both M5 Pro and M5 Max configurations expected. Rumors also suggest the introduction of a new, more affordable iPhone model, potentially dubbed the iPhone 17e. Other products anticipated include an eighth-generation iPad Air, a twelfth-generation iPad, and potentially new Mac displays, according to MacRumors.

The invitation’s color scheme – a gradient of yellow, green, and blue – has fueled further speculation, with some observers suggesting these colors may feature prominently in new MacBook designs. One Redditor posited that the colors will be the new MacBook colors.

Apple’s decision to hold the event in Shanghai is notable, though the company has not commented on the reasoning behind the location choice. The event was announced as a surprise, as neither Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman nor other prominent leakers had predicted a spring event, anticipating instead a series of individual product releases.

The event is scheduled to begin at 3 PM German time, according to Heise Online. As of Monday, the event was not listed on the official Apple event page, adding to the air of mystery surrounding the announcement.