December is usually a slower month for Apple releases. We typically get new update to our operating systems, but it’s not full of major new features. Most of the time, any hardware that hasn’t shipped by the end of November is just going to wait for release the next year.
Such is the case this year, where Apple is likely done releasing new hardware, but has some nice OS updates in store for us. Here’s what we expect from Apple in December 2025.
Likely no new hardware
Last month, Apple was reportedly planning at least three more hardware releases this year: A new HomePod mini, a 2nd-generation AirTag, and a fourth-generation Apple TV 4K. New Apple products in December are incredibly rare, but don’t forget, the AirPods Max dropped on December 8, 2020.
So while it is certainly possible that any of those could drop just before the holidays, it’s not very likely. We’ll probably see all three in early 2026. The second-gen AirTag would be nice to get before all that holiday travel, though.
Apps and software updates
The OS 26.2 releases once again focuses on polish and quality-of-life improvements. There are auto-generated chapters in Podcasts, updated sleep score ranges, a Liquid Glass Measure app, and more in iOS 26.2. But it’s the new Edge Light feature in macOS 26.2 that has us the most excited about this update.
Apple will probably release these 26.2 updates in the second week of December, and begin the 26.3 beta tests around the same time. We don’t expect big changes in that update, either—it’s the 26.4 update that is supposed to have the new Siri we’re all waiting for.
Services
Apple TV+
Here are the shows, series, and movies we expect to release on Apple TV+ in TK. If you want to know what’s coming later, check our guide to upcoming Apple TV+ content.
The First Snow of Fraggle Rock: The Fraggles eagerly await the first snow of the season and all the traditions it brings, but when only a single snowflake arrives and Gobo can’t write the yearly holiday song everyone is expecting, the season is thrown off course. December 5
F1: The Movie: Apple’s most successful movie stars Brad Pitt as an aging driving that needs to lead an F1 team to victory. After its big theatrical release several months ago, it starts streaming on Apple TV in December. December 12
Born to Be Wild: From first steps to first hunts, follow six rare baby animals as they learn survival skills and bring hope for the future of their species in the wild. December 19
Apple Arcade
Apple releases most Apple Arcade games on the first Friday of each month. Check our Apple Arcade FAQ for a full list of Apple Arcade games and more details on the service. Occasionally, games are released with no forewarning, but you’ll usually see next month’s releases listed in the Coming Soon section.
PowerWash Simulator: The megahit PC power-washing game (yes, really) comes to mobile. December 4
SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit 2: A side-scrolling platform game starring everyone’s favorite sponge. December 4
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm+: A 3D battle game based on the popular anime series. December 4
Subway Surfers+: An upgraded Apple Arcade version of the classic mobile endless runner. December 4
Cult of the Lamb: Managing an evil cult was never so cute! The hit PC game comes to mobile. December 4
Author: Jason Cross, Senior Editor, Macworld
Jason has written about technology for more than 25 years - first in the gaming press, then focusing on enthusiast PCs and general technology. He enjoys learning how complicated technology works and explaining it in a way anyone can understand.