Apple Store down ahead of 'Peek performance' event

Apple has taken its online Apple Store offline while it is "making updates," with it expected to stay offline until after the end of the Apple event.

As it traditionally does, Apple has taken the online store down some hours ahead of a major launch event. In this case, the event is the "Peek performance" one, which is expected to include at least a new iPhone SE, but may feature much more.

Apple never says when the store will reopen, aside from asking users to "check back soon." However, the event is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Eastern.

Recent events have tended to be around an hour, so it's likely that the store will reopen around 2 p.m. Eastern.

What to expect at Apple's spring event

Apple has a large raft of rumored products set to launch throughout 2022. While some are expected to arrive later in the year, such as the usual fall "iPhone 14" refresh, there's a collection of products that could appear at this earlier event.

The main focus will probably be on the iPhone SE, with a third-generation device expected to pack 5G connectivity for the first time. Some rumors point to it consisting of a specifications bump while having the same design as the second-generation model, complete with a 4.7-inch display and Touch ID.

The iPad Air 5 is also said to be a potential candidate for the event, with speculation putting it as having similar feature upgrades as the iPad mini 6, including an upgrade to the A15 Bionic. 5G connectivity and an upgrade to the FaceTime HD camera to a 12-megapixel ultra-wide version with Center Stage support has also been touted.

On the Mac side, a revised Mac mini is a strong choice for launch, with it expected to enjoy an upgrade from the M1 to the M1 Pro and M1 Max. It is also expected to undergo a major revamp in design, with a thinner chassis, more ports at the back, and a magnetic power connection.

More recently, there have been discussions about the "Mac Studio." The new form factor is said to be between the Mac mini and Mac Pro, with performance exceeding that of the Mac mini.

The new desktop is rumored to be released in parallel with a new display by Apple. It's not yet clear if this is the rumored 7K display, or will come in under the existing Pro Display XDR.