Flagship iPhones, iPads, and Macs typically steal the show when it comes to Apple events and announcements, dominating media coverage and customer interest. However, Apple also offers a wide range of lesser-known products that, while not necessarily as popular or powerful, are still important parts of its ecosystem. According to the rumored calendar, 2025 is shaping up to be a busy year for Apple hardware, and these six forgotten devices could finally get some long-overdue upgrades.
iPhone SE4
Despite being Apple's worst-performing 2025 phone, the iPhone SE 4 – or iPhone 16E – could prove to be a best-seller after its likely launch in March. Compared to its three-year-old predecessor, the fourth-generation budget iPhone is expected to feature an all-new exterior that resembles an iPhone 14 or 15. Not to mention support for Apple Intelligence (thanks to the core chip A18), adopting Face ID, switching to USB-C, featuring an edge-to-edge OLED panel and a 48 MP rear camera.
The September iPhone 17 phones will undoubtedly intrigue more users with their high-end technical specifications. Still, considering its sub-$500 price tag, the iPhone SE 4 could convince budget-conscious customers to finally upgrade from their worn-out iPhones or mid-range Android phones. After all, it will likely be the first SE model to offer both modern design and premium internal amenities, which will entice many undecided buyers to opt for it.
Apple Watch SE3
The Apple Watch is another outdated SE product that is rumored to get an upgrade this year. Although it's the company's cheapest smartwatch, this model offers a reliable experience, without some unnecessary perks currently exclusive to the Series and Ultra models. So for just $249, users get the same battery life and core set of watchOS apps, excluding ECG support, always-on display, and search precise. This makes it the ideal choice for those looking to lead a more active lifestyle but can't justify paying extra for the bonus sensors.
In September, the Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to launch with a new design, ditching the aluminum chassis in favor of colored plastic. Therefore, the wearable could potentially lower its price to better compete with cheap fitness trackers and attract younger people. Beyond that, it could pack a faster S-series chipset, delivering faster performance and unlocking more demanding features.
The Apple Watch SE hasn't changed much in 5 years.
Foundry
AirTag 2
Released in 2021, the AirTag is undoubtedly the most effective Bluetooth tracker for occasional object location. It's powered by Apple's extensive Find My network, making it visible to hundreds of millions of iDevices across the planet. At some point this year, Apple is expected to finally release the successor to the coin-sized tracker, featuring a new ultra-wideband chip and additional privacy measures.
With the improved UWB chip, users would be able to locate the AirTag 2 more accurately. And with many criminals relying on modified AirTags to stalk their victims, Apple could make removing its speaker more difficult. It certainly won't be the most exciting launch of 2025, but given the nature of the product, it's a welcome upgrade nonetheless.
HomePod mini 2
HomePod mini turns five this year. And, disregarding the superficial color refresh, it has yet to receive its first upgrade. Fortunately, the 2nd generation model could finally launch in the fall. Based on credible rumors, the HomePod mini 2 will feature a faster processor, Apple's in-house wireless connectivity chipset, potential Wi-Fi 6E support, and an improved UWB chip for improved transfer. The speaker could also play a larger role in Apple's HomeKit infrastructure, as the company is poised to embrace and take smart home products more seriously. It may not be the most revolutionary version, but it will certainly maximize the HomePod mini's function in homes.
Apple TV 4K 4
Speaking of homes, the Apple TV 4K could also get its first upgrade in three years this fall. The fourth-generation model, like the HomePod mini 2, will likely adopt Apple's own networking chip, as well as a faster A-series brain. Besides potentially expanding its smart home capabilities, it's unclear whether the Apple TV 4K 4 will bring other notable features, but it's expected to be positioned as a new home device smart device that is more than just a quiet home hub.
The next-generation Apple TV 4K could be more than just a set-top box.
Foundry
Studio and Pro screens
Launching in 2019 and 2022 respectively, the Pro Display XDR and Studio Display are expected to be upgraded. Despite a starting price of $4,999 and cutting-edge technology, the old screen could use some improvements. For example, its current refresh rate caps at 60Hz, so supporting ProMotion (120Hz) would be a good start. It could also borrow some features from Studio Display, such as the FaceTime camera and spatial audio speakers. This would make it a higher-end variant of the Studio Display – and much more attractive for its $4,999 price – and perhaps include a stand this time.
Meanwhile, this year's Studio Display may finally upgrade to mini-LED and improve the bundled webcam. It remains to be seen whether Apple offers further upgrades or plans to lower its starting price of $1,599.
With the new
Since Apple doesn't upgrade the above devices as frequently as other products, this year will be the perfect entry point for newcomers. Customers who want to start with the basics will be able to own an affordable and up-to-date iPhone, Apple Watch and AirTag. Meanwhile, users migrating their media streaming setup to Apple will appreciate the equally inexpensive Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini, which can seamlessly stream tvOS audio.
And while proprietary displays may be relatively specialized, their release could accompany the new M4-equipped Mac Studio and Mac Pro computers. These would pair well for professionals looking for high-end setups.
Of course, beyond these six forgotten products, Apple also offers many regular updates. These will likely include a MacBook Air and iPad Air M4, an iPad 11 with Apple Intelligence support, MacBook Pro and iPad Pro M5, Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3, and hopefully some surprises in the works of road.
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