(CNN)Apple (AAPL) is about to hold its first major product event in 2022 and the focus will be on performance. That probably means faster chips, more devices with 5G connectivity and more powerful cameras.
At a virtual event on Tuesday what has Under the slogan “Peek Performance,” Apple is expected to announce several product updates, including a major upgrade for its MacBooks and iMacs powered by the second iteration of the in-house processor. But the unofficial star of the event could be an updated iPhone SE.
Apple is rumored to be planning a 5G version of the SE, its cheaper iPhone model, which could give a boost Demand for its core smartphone business. In January, Apple reported record revenue during the all-important holiday quarter, fueled in part by demand for its latest line of iPhones.
However, the event comes at a time of some turbulence for Apple and the wider business community. Apple recently announced it would stop selling products in Russia amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Like other companies, Apple has had to grapple with supply chain issues for its products in recent months, although CEO Tim Cook previously said supply chain delays have since improved during the holiday shopping season.
Apple’s event will be streamed live on its website, YouTube and other social media platforms. It is scheduled to begin at 10:00am PT / 1:00pm ET. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:
An affordable 5G iPhone
While Apple usually launches its flagship iPhone devices in the fall, the rumor mill suggests it could unveil its third iPhone SE this week. Apple originally released the device in 2017 and updated it in 2020.
The new version is expected to run on Apple’s faster A15 Bionic chip, have an updated camera that shoots 4K video and could ditch the classic notch usually found at the top. But it’s the anticipated 5G capability that could be the ultimate draw for customers, giving them access to the faster wireless network at a cheaper price — or at least that could be Apple’s hope.
“We still haven’t seen overwhelming demand for it in our smartphone consumer surveys,” said Anthony Scarsella, an analyst at market research firm IDC. “It just so happens that most new devices coming out are 5G capable; it’s more of a push on the supply side.”
But he thinks the expected price of $399 — the same as the current iPhone SE — will also appeal to first-time buyers those looking to switch from Android and those who prefer smaller screens.
A 5G iPad Air
The next-gen iPad Air is also said to get the same A15 processor as the new iPhone SE, along with 5G connectivity and a new front-facing camera.
New Macs
Apple is expected to unveil new versions of its 13-inch MacBook Pro and Mac mini and 24-inch Macs as well as a completely redesigned MacBook Air — all with the company’s purported M2 silicon chip, according to a recent Bloomberg report.
Apple launched its first proprietary M1 silicon chipset for its lineup of computers in 2020, breaking away from Intel’s years of using a one-size-fits-all option. Back then, Apple claimed it was the world’s fastest CPU core and fastest integrated graphics in a personal computer. A year later, Apple introduced its M1 Pro and M1 Max processors for the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro range.
Remarks from the CEO on the war in Ukraine
Cook often begins corporate keynotes by addressing important issues in the news, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if he brought up the war in Ukraine.
Late February Cook tweeted: “I am deeply concerned about the situation in Ukraine. We are doing everything we can for our teams there and will support humanitarian efforts on the ground. I think of those people who are in danger right now and join all those who are calling for peace.”
A possible surprise
Last year, alongside a new iPad Pro, colorful iMacs, and a purple iPhone, Apple also introduced AirTags, a tile-like Bluetooth locator that attaches to items like keys, wallets, laptops, or even your car to help you find them. So it’s possible that Apple has a hidden gadget or two in the pipeline this year as well.
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