Apple Planning Series of Upgrades This Fall: Top Analyst

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is planning to revamp almost its entire product range this fall, according to one of the iPhone maker’s reliable supply chain analysts.

In a research note, reported on by tech news site 9to5 Mac, Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities claimed that the Cupertino, California-based company’s upgrades will include face recognition for iPads, bigger smart watches and long-awaited improvements for the Mac mini.

Kuo predicted that Apple, in addition to launching three new iPhone models, plans to update nearly its entire Mac and MacBook line-up this fall. These changes are expected to include better chips and “significant display-performance upgrades” for the MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini. Kuo also predicted that Apple will replace its older MacBook Air with a new budget laptop. (See also: Apple to Lower Prices on New Crop of iPhones: MS.)

Kuo is considered by many in the tech industry to be the top analyst covering Apple, particularly with his product predictions.

Apple is also expected to have big plans for its line of tablets. The new iPad Pro models are set to introduce Face ID and an updated bezel-less design, Kuo said, and will come in two sizes: an updated 12.9-inch model and a 11-inch version.

Two new smart watches are believed to be getting readied for launch with slightly larger displays. According to Kuo, the smaller 38mm model will jump from a 1.5-inch display to a 1.57-inch one, while the 42mm model will now feature a 1.78-inch display, rather than a 1.65-inch screen. Both of the smart watches are expected to be released with enhanced heart rate detection.

Kuo is also confident that Apple will release a new pair of AirPods and the AirPower wireless charger, roughly one year after it was first announced. The AirPods are said to feature improved wireless performance, hands-free Siri, and an AirPower-compatible wireless charging case.

In his note, Kuo outlined the potential risks that could undermine Apple’s release schedule, warning that shipping issues and weaker than expected demand might trigger some delays. (See also: Key Levels for Apple Stock in Second Half of 2018.)