Summary: Apple’s latest MacBook Pro update was subtle, but exciting changes might be on the horizon with the M6 MacBook Pro. Expected in late 2026 or early 2027, this new model could finally bring an OLED touchscreen, a sleek new design without the notch, and improved performance. Here’s what we know so far about the future of MacBooks.
A Quiet Year for the MacBook Pro
This year’s MacBook Pro refresh was notably low-key compared to previous launches. Apple introduced only a single new 14-inch MacBook Pro model with the M5 chip, making less noise than usual about its new lineup. If recent leaks are accurate, it might be worth holding off on upgrading for at least another year.
What to Expect from the M6 MacBook Pro
Bloomberg’s trusted Apple insider, Mark Gurman, shared insights from anonymous sources suggesting the M6 MacBook Pro will arrive in late 2026 or early 2027. Currently, the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro is sold alongside last year’s M4 Pro and M4 Max models. Apple is expected to reserve its higher-end M5 chips for early next year.
The OLED Display Upgrade
One of the most exciting potential upgrades is the introduction of an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. Unlike traditional LCDs, OLED screens use self-emissive materials that deliver deep, “inky” blacks and superior contrast. Apple refers to its OLED iPhone displays as “Super Retina XDR,” while its top-tier devices like the M4 and M5 iPad Pros feature a dual-layer OLED setup for enhanced brightness.
Touchscreen on a MacBook? Finally!
Another long-awaited feature could be a touchscreen on the MacBook Pro. Gurman notes that the device won’t be a convertible laptop with a rotating screen but rather a traditional laptop with touchscreen capabilities alongside the usual trackpad. Apple has historically avoided touchscreens on Macs, believing the iPad fills that niche. However, with iPadOS 16 introducing floating windows for multitasking, the line between tablets and laptops is blurring.
Goodbye Notch, Hello Dynamic Island
The new MacBook Pro might also ditch the controversial notch surrounding the webcam. Instead, it could feature an edge-to-edge screen with a Dynamic Island-like feature similar to the iPhone. This interactive area can display notifications and useful info like timers or ride-sharing updates, enhancing the user experience.
Pricing and Availability
Both the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros are expected to receive these upgrades. Due to the more advanced OLED screens, prices will likely increase. Currently, MacBook Pros use mini LED displays branded as Liquid Retina XDR. The base M5 MacBook Pro with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage starts at $1,600.
Should You Wait for the M6?
Recent MacBook updates have improved performance but kept the same design, making it hard to justify upgrading if you already own an M-series MacBook. Apple might introduce the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips alongside a new M5 MacBook Air in early 2026. If Apple remains hesitant about touchscreens, perhaps they should reconsider the idea, learning from the mixed reception of the old Touch Bar on 13-inch MacBook Pros.