Want a free Apple Watch? Play ZDNET's 'Guessing Game' to win one - only 4 days left
Original reporting by ZDNet
ZDNET's 'Big Guessing Game' is a reader engagement contest inviting predictions about Apple's anticipated September 2026 product announcements. With industry whispers pointing to a potentially landmark event, the tech world is abuzz with possibilities ranging from a revolutionary foldable iPhone to an innovative touchscreen MacBook, or perhaps even both. ZDNET is tapping into this heightened excitement, offering its informed audience the unique opportunity to test their foresight and win a new Apple Watch by accurately predicting what Apple has in store. This multi-round contest not only engages readers but also provides a fascinating glimpse into collective public sentiment ahead of one of the year's most crucial tech reveals.
Reader Predictions Emerge
Early results from Round 2 have already painted a fascinating picture of collective intuition regarding Apple's next big moves. While a narrow majority of 55% of participants don't foresee a foldable iPhone making its debut in 2026, a significant 28% are instead betting on the arrival of a touchscreen MacBook. For those eager to weigh in on these pivotal product questions and influence the final tally, the third and final round of the contest remains open. Readers can submit their predictions until 11:59 pm ET on Tuesday, September 1st, with each correct guess earning an entry into the drawing for the highly coveted Apple Watch. The ultimate winner will be contacted following the September Apple Event, as this initiative underscores both the immense anticipation surrounding Apple's 2026 showcase and the power of collective intelligence in forecasting the future of tech.
As ZDNET's Big Guessing Game enters its final stage, the collective insight of its readership offers a fascinating snapshot of current industry expectations for Apple's September 2026 event. With a majority of participants betting against a foldable iPhone in favor of a touchscreen MacBook, the speculation underscores a palpable anticipation for Apple's next major hardware innovation. This community-driven forecasting, while a contest, is more than just a game; it reflects the tech world's ongoing dialogue about Apple's strategic direction. Reader predictions, especially from an informed audience, often mirror market sentiment, highlighting both perceived gaps in current offerings and the direction users hope technology will take. The strong interest in a touchscreen MacBook, for instance, suggests a growing desire for greater versatility in Apple's laptop lineup, potentially blurring the lines between its tablet and computing ecosystems.
Shaping Future Tech
Regardless of the eventual outcome of the September 2026 event, the intensity of this speculation underscores Apple's unparalleled influence on the consumer electronics landscape. Should the company introduce groundbreaking form factors like a foldable iPhone or a touchscreen MacBook, it would not merely launch new products but redefine industry standards, accelerating adoption curves and setting new benchmarks for competitors. Conversely, a decision to defer such innovations would signal Apple's continued commitment to its established product lines, or perhaps point to entirely different, unforeseen breakthroughs. Either way, the stakes for innovation remain incredibly high, promising to reshape how we interact with technology for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
- What new products might Apple announce at its September 2026 event?
- Apple's September 2026 event is rumored to potentially feature significant product announcements. Speculation includes the possible unveiling of a new foldable iPhone, which would mark a major shift in the company's smartphone lineup. Additionally, a touchscreen MacBook is also a possibility, suggesting an evolution in Apple's laptop design and user interaction. These predictions reflect current industry trends and consumer interest in innovative form factors and enhanced device versatility.
- How can I participate in ZDNET's Apple product guessing contest?
- ZDNET runs a "Big Guessing Game" contest where participants predict Apple's future product announcements. To enter, readers submit their guesses for what Apple might reveal at upcoming events, such as a foldable iPhone or touchscreen MacBook. Correct guesses serve as entries into a drawing for prizes, typically an Apple Watch. The contest is generally open to legal US residents aged 18 and over, with specific entry periods and official rules detailed on the sponsor's website.
- What are consumer predictions for Apple's 2026 foldable iPhone or touchscreen MacBook?
- Consumer sentiment, as reflected in various polls and contests, suggests differing expectations for Apple's potential 2026 product launches. For instance, a notable portion of respondents believe a foldable iPhone will not be released in 2026. Conversely, a significant number of participants anticipate Apple will announce a touchscreen MacBook instead. These predictions highlight ongoing speculation and diverse opinions within the tech community regarding Apple's strategic moves for future device innovation.