Apple may have revealed key details about its upcoming March 4 announcement through code discovered in the public release of macOS 26.3.
Developers examining the final macOS 26.3 build found references to previously unannounced hardware, suggesting that at least three new devices are already supported at the system level.
Macworld reported that the update includes kernel extensions referencing codenames J700, J427 and J527, which align with earlier rumours about a low-cost MacBook and updated Studio Display models.
Low-cost MacBook reference appears in macOS
The J700 codename is believed to correspond to a new entry-level MacBook positioned below the current MacBook Air in Apple’s lineup.
Reports indicate that this model could become the first Apple silicon Mac powered by an A-series chip rather than an M-series processor, potentially using the same A18 Pro found in recent iPhone models.
Benchmarks have previously suggested that the A18 Pro delivers performance comparable to the original M1 chip, making it suitable for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming and document editing.
Analysts have speculated that the new MacBook could launch with a display slightly under 13 inches and an aluminium chassis, with pricing estimates ranging between $599 and $799.
The appearance of J700-related drivers in macOS 26.3 strengthens expectations that Apple has finalised software support ahead of the hardware’s public reveal.
Two new Studio Displays hinted
The macOS update also references J427 and J527, both widely believed to correspond to two separate variants of a next-generation Studio Display that Apple has been developing behind the scenes.
Previous leaks have suggested that a refreshed Studio Display could introduce ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate alongside HDR support, potentially marking a significant visual upgrade over the current model.
Reports have also pointed to the possible inclusion of an A19 chip to power advanced onboard features such as improved webcam image processing and enhanced spatial audio functionality directly within the display itself.
The existence of two separate display identifiers raises the possibility of different configurations, potentially signalling size variations or feature-tiered models within the same generation.
Furthermore, Apple is expected to launch as many as 15 new products in 2026, adding further context to the growing anticipation around its upcoming March event.
Apple has scheduled its next announcement for March 4, and the presence of device drivers in macOS 26.3 suggests that at least some of the anticipated hardware may be unveiled during that event.
