Code Leak Unveils Apple's Upcoming Hardware Lineup
The release candidate for macOS Tahoe 26.7, seeded to developers ahead of its public rollout, contains hundreds of internal code strings that outline Apple’s upcoming hardware release calendar, according to Business Today. References in the code point to a range of future products, from a foldable iPhone Ultra to camera-equipped AirPods and new Mac models.
Foldable 'iPhone Ultra' and iPhone 18 Lineup
Among the most significant finds are code references to Apple's fall 2026 flagship lineup. Beyond standard codenames for the iPhone 18 Pro (V63) and iPhone 18 Pro Max (V64), developers uncovered a reference to V68, which is believed to be the highly anticipated foldable iPhone Ultra. The code also references an "iPhone Air 2" (V62), suggesting Apple is working on a second-generation ultra-thin model targeting an early 2027 debut.
The foldable iPhone, long rumored, has impressed people with its pocket fit, the feel and durability of its advanced hinge mechanism, and new iPad-like app layouts that take advantage of the larger internal display, as reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter and highlighted by The Verge. However, the device reportedly lacks a telephoto camera lens.
Smart Home Push: homeOS and New Displays
The macOS build also references Pebble, the rumored internal name for Apple's upcoming homeOS, a name first revealed by Bloomberg. Code strings point toward two distinct smart displays (codenamed J490 and J491) — one tabletop version with a built-in stand and another designed for wall mounting.
The leak also features a mystery home accessory (J229) equipped with environmental sensors and acoustic monitoring, sparking speculation that an Apple-branded security camera or sensor node is in development.
AirPods With Built-In Cameras
Perhaps the most intriguing discovery involves wearable audio. The update references codename B790, described as an AirPods model featuring an active camera feed. A system error message within the code — "B790 start image stream failed for left bud" — suggests real-time computer vision testing on the device, as reported by Business Today.
MacBook Pro, iMac, and iPad Mini Updates
Beyond iPhones and AirPods, the code reveals an entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 chip (J804), refreshed iMac configurations (J833/J834), and a new iPad mini (J510/J511) featuring OLED display and A19 Pro chip.
Accidental Merge and Price Hike Speculation
The Verge reports that the macOS Tahoe 26.7 release candidate accidentally merged an internal branch, leading to the exposure of the code. This suggests the revelations were a technical accident rather than a deliberate disclosure.
Meanwhile, in his Power On newsletter, Gurman muses about how far Apple might go with price hikes for new iPhones, without offering a definitive answer. The Verge notes that Apple's September launch is weeks away, with at least the iPhone 18 Pro series expected to debut.
The article links to a Bloomberg story titled "Apple’s Foldable iPhone Will Help Bring Some Magic Back," which offers further analysis of the device's potential impact.
As the September event approaches, these leaked details provide a preview of Apple's roadmap, though the accidental nature of the leak underscores the challenges of keeping such plans under wraps. For now, enthusiasts and investors alike have much to anticipate from Apple's upcoming announcements.