Image: Apple via Macworld
Recognise this image? It’s usually a key indicator that Apple is about to launch new products at an event or start taking pre-orders for an upcoming release!
More often than not, there will have been indicators or rumours that new products are coming before the store totally shuts down. Either way, as soon as we see big clues like this, we make sure our customers see them too. Here’s why.
Keeping customers in the know
Being a customer-focused business includes keeping our network up to date with anticipated Apple events and Mac releases. This helps them make the right decisions, at the right time, to get the most out of their equipment. That’s not to say it isn’t challenging though…
While it’s important for us to pass on information to our customers, we also can’t run a business off rumours, and it can be a hard balance to find. Firstly, to the surprise of many, we have access to the same rumours and information that our customers do! Secondly, we could be delaying sales for weeks by advising our customers on upcoming events.
There’s conflict here, but that’s a choice we make – like you, we would hate to receive a high-value item only for it then to be superseded straight after. By passing on what we know, customers can make their own informed decisions.
Balancing rumours with reality
While some Apple events are fairly nailed on, others spring out of nowhere, and some don’t happen at all. Take the M5 MacBook Pro, for example. We thought they’d be landing at the end of January, then the rumour mill told us February, and now it looks like March. Ultimately, the whole Apple ecosystem, including retailers, only knows as much as you and I – and we’re totally transparent about that too.
We’ll be honest, this approach has backfired on us from time to time. We’ve learnt from this along the way, but we’ve found that even if customers choose not to wait for an upcoming Apple event to lease their next Mac, they appreciate being given the choice and foresight. Our aim is to give customers the best opportunity to get in as close to the start of a product lifecycle as possible, so it’s important for us to share what we know.
What dictates the rumour mill
Nothing is ever certain in the Apple world, but here are a few examples of the kind of intel and clues we pay attention to when it comes to new releases:
- Software release cycles – new Macs can be predicted based on when the next MacOS is expected.
- Apple milestones – Apple’s 50th anniversary on 1st April 2026, for example.
- Annual events – the cyclical history of event dates can indicate releases.
- Distribution/stock levels – the lack of certain models can indicate new stock is coming.
However, let us be clear again: we don’t get told this information – it’s all educated guesses and assumptions. It feels harder than ever to read into clues such as stock levels, especially since COVID-19. However, if all the indicators are there and the Appleverse is purring about a forthcoming event, we’ll do our level best to inform our customer base within enough time for them to make a choice.
So, what’s the latest?
At the time of writing, a cluster of Apple events running up to and including the 50th anniversary are expected to bring a rush of new releases. In March 2026, we could see the M5 MacBook Pro/Max and maybe even the Studio Display 2. Following that, the revival of the 12” MacBook – tipped to dominate the affordable laptop market – along with the M5 MacBook Air could land in April.
Upgrade to the latest Macs, protect your cash flow
At Lease Loop, we guarantee to help you get the latest Apple equipment to boost your business performance, with no unexpected fees, dedicated AppleCare support that offers 24/7 priority access and a team that aligns with your goals as a company.
For transparent advice and guidance on how you can get as close as possible to the start of a Mac lifecycle, or a general chat about how we can help further your mission with Apple technology, call our friendly team today on 01952 876928.
Alternatively, drop us an email at sales@leaseloop.co or enquire online.