Apple could be preparing one of the most significant changes to its MacBook lineup in years, with reports suggesting that the company may introduce its first touchscreen MacBook Pro by the end of October or during the first week of November.
The upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to feature OLED displays with touch support, marking a major shift in Apple’s approach to its Mac computers. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported that Apple is working on these new models, which could also bring changes to the laptop’s design and internal hardware.
Although Apple has not officially announced the devices, the reported launch timeline suggests that their arrival may be closer than expected.
macOS 27.2 Beta Offers a Possible Launch Clue
The timing of the expected launch has drawn attention because Apple is reportedly testing the upcoming MacBook Pro models with macOS 27.2, which is currently in beta.
The software update is expected to arrive towards the end of October. This has fuelled speculation that Apple could announce its new touchscreen laptops around the same period.
If the timeline holds, the launch could introduce touch functionality to the MacBook Pro without requiring users to move away from Apple’s traditional macOS experience.
OLED Display and Thinner Design Among Expected Changes
The biggest upgrade could be the introduction of OLED technology alongside touchscreen support.
Apple is reportedly developing both 14-inch and 16-inch versions, potentially giving buyers the option to choose between two screen sizes. The laptops are also expected to feature a thinner design, which would distinguish them from the current MacBook Pro models.
Another possible design change involves the display cutout. Apple could replace the existing notch with a Dynamic Island-style cutout, bringing a familiar design element from its iPhone lineup to its professional laptops.
However, the exact appearance and functionality of this feature remain unconfirmed.
M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips Could Power the New MacBooks
On the performance front, the upcoming touchscreen MacBook Pro models are expected to use Apple’s M5 Pro and M5 Max processors.
These chips would be part of the hardware upgrades accompanying the new display technology and redesigned body.
The reported positioning of the laptops is also worth noting. The touchscreen versions could sit above Apple’s regular 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro variants, potentially creating a separate premium category within the existing lineup.
Will Apple Finally Bring Cellular Connectivity to MacBooks?
Built-in cellular connectivity is another feature that has attracted attention, although its inclusion in the upcoming models remains uncertain.
Apple has previously explored the possibility of bringing cellular connectivity to Mac computers. Such a feature would allow users to access mobile networks directly from their laptops instead of relying on an iPhone hotspot or another external connection.
However, there is no confirmation that the upcoming MacBook Pro models will include Apple’s C1X or C2 modem.
Apple Has Yet to Confirm the Touchscreen MacBook Pro
For now, the touchscreen MacBook Pro remains unannounced, and Apple has not confirmed its specifications, pricing or release date.
If the reported timeline proves accurate, the company could reveal its first touchscreen MacBook before November gets underway.
The potential combination of OLED technology, touch input, a thinner body and a Dynamic Island-style display cutout would make this more than a routine processor upgrade for Apple’s professional laptop range. It could mark a new direction for the MacBook Pro, although the final features will only become clear once Apple makes an official announcement.
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