New Year, Better Me, Improved Tech
Apple products will be the unsung hero of 2026.
The actual process of making new year’s resolutions hasn’t been something that I have actively done since I was likely a teen. But as an adult, I have sometimes made lists of goals throughout the year that I wanted to accomplish. What is a resolution exactly? The dictionary defines this noun as a “firm decision to do or not to do something” or “the quality of being determined or resolute.” Similar words include, intention, aim, decision, intent, aspiration, determination, purpose, or resolve. I guess the hang up of going through the motions to choose a resolution feels so finite because what happens if you don’t end up seeing something through in 2026? Am I in trouble with myself? Who is holding me accountable?
There are many alternative ways we can hit the refresh button on this life we live. On Good Morning America, spiritual teacher Gabby Bernstein talked about her 21 days of manifestations with the “universe matching the energy we put out.” The other day I was reading Riding Tides by Katie Colley and she does the practice of choosing a word as a theme for the year, which I love (now thinking of what’s my word). In S.P.A. by Courtney Wittich, writer Dia Lupo shared, “Be Like Water.” – which I absolutely love and will be writing this on a post-it for my wall.
I have started writing daily lists for things that I want to achieve, because I am trying to make better use of my time and be more productive. Is this my resolution for 2026? Maybe. But when I also think of productivity, the world of tech comes to mind and there’s a whole universe of products that help you achieve just that: Apple. Every year, the update and release of new products can help us all become the better versions of ourselves (or at least they make me want me to). So as I approach this year, these are the 8 Apple products that I am looking to help me get the most of what all 2026 has to offer.
iPhone 17 Pro
It’s not a gimmick. The latest iPhone 17 in versions Pro and Pro Max are the most powerful models ever, packed with distinct changes. Starting with the design, the phone is made of a super durable aluminum unibody case that helps to maximize battery capacity and durability. My favorite update to any phone that Apple releases is always the camera, and this one is way better than before. As someone that takes about 1,000 photos a day, the camera needs to be top notch. The new phone offers 8x optical zoom and the front camera automatically expands out when detecting more people in the frame or allows you to switch from portrait to landscape without having to move the phone. And the cherry on top – a 20 minute charge gets you 50% and up to 33 hours of video playback, making this model with the best battery life ever.
AirPods Pro 3
I know that there has been a return for the love of the wired headphones, but the wired headphones (unfortunately) do not hold a candle to the latest improvements with the AirPods Pro 3. Not only will I be able to block out sound while listening to my favorite tunes, but up to 4 times more of sound will be blocked out, all while offering hearing tests and protection. The coolest feature of all– the ability to translate someone speaking to you in a different language. In this case, I can properly tune out Maya as she barks at anyone passing by our apartment and be able to properly get more work done.
iPad Air + Magic Keyboard + Apple Pencil Pro
I’ve been a longtime lover of the iPad. I still remember my first iPad and having it engraved…those were good times. Recently, I went with my godmother to purchase hers and I was explaining all of the benefits I’ve found with this device and how it helps me in my day to day. The biggest misconception is that this could be used as a replacement for my computer. While two things can be true, for me, I still use my computer equally as much as I use my iPad. Especially when traveling, when the iPad Air is paired with the Magic Keyboard, it’s a lighter option for still being able to get things done without having to pull out your computer.
The updated iPad Air allows you to utilize the Apple Intelligence system to help enhance writing or creating content. And I love the ability to clean up unwanted items in photos with a single tap. I specifically make the images seen in these newsletters with the use of my iPad Air. With the Apple Pencil Pro, it has all of the great qualities of the original Apple Pencil (pixel-perfect precision, low latency, tilt sensitivity, and attaches magnetically to the side), but now the Pro version allows for wireless pairing and charging, and some sensory controlling with a single squeeze or double tap to change tools or functions, and rotating the barrel of the pencil to change the orientation of the shaped pen and brush tools. You can even now locate any misplaced Pencil Pro with the use of the Find My app.
Apple Watch
The older I get, the more I’ve grown to appreciate a watch. Not necessarily for the ability to know the time, but for the functions that it provides. I’ve used an Apple Watch for a year now and love that it can track my steps and log work outs. But now the Apple Watch Series 11 has made leaps in its offerings for productivity and functionality that will make 2026 an even healthier year for us all. The ability to detect hypertension and high blood pressure, log your sleep score (so now everything is all in one place), personalized audible motivation to be your mini cheerleader to boost fitness, a much durable scratch-resistant glass face, and up to 24 hours in battery life. The Series 11 option is also available in the Hermes version for a more luxurious upgrade that I am dreaming of.
AirTag
There’s no reason to misplace anything if you have the AirTag. For nearly 5 years, this product has saved us all. With a fresh new pack, I’ll be adding to my wallet and keys so I can reclaim my time spent in the potential search of these items.
MacBook Pro
It was January 10, 2006 when Apple launched the MacBook Pro. So I think it is quite kismet that 20 years later I should obtain one of Apple’s crown jewel products. My first Mac was the (iconic) white Mac laptop that I received as a college graduation present. I loved that computer so much. It carried me through till I decided to go to graduate school a few years later and I decided it was time for the MacBook Air. I always admired the Air for its sleekness in design and lightweight nature – because we all know how heavy computers can be (does anyone remember having a Dell?). While I still love my MacBook Air, (note: I’m currently writing this newsletter on her now), I think it’s time to move on up! The MacBook Pro comes in two different colors this time - black and silver; includes 3 chips - M5, M4 Pro, and M4 Max – each individually offering next-generation speed, more power, and advancements for whatever your needs are; a larger screen, better camera and display, longer battery life (perfect for the next 15 hour flight), compatibility with Apple Intelligence, and more connectivity with your iPhone so you can focus on one screen.
As I channel my inner Carrie Bradshaw in cranking out these newsletter… I couldn’t help but wonder, what will 2026 bring. And just like that, there’s no need to guess anymore with the help of new and improved products in tech.
Wishing you all a healthy, happy, and blessed new year! Looking forward to continuing this journey with you.
Until next time,
Thanks for the shoutout! Please let us know if you land on a word! And now I want a new phone??? Ha! Happy 2026!