Apple is reportedly developing a touch-screen version of the MacBook Pro, featuring thinner and lighter designs, OLED displays, and the upcoming M6 chip series, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The new MacBooks, codenamed K114 and K116, are expected to arrive in late 2026 or early 2027.
Design and Display
The upcoming MacBook Pro will include a touch-sensitive OLED display, marking Apple’s first use of this high-end, thin display technology in a Mac. The laptops will continue to have a full trackpad and keyboard, allowing users to choose between touch input and traditional controls.
Apple is replacing the current notch with a hole-punch camera design, similar in principle to the iPhone’s Dynamic Island, to maximize usable display area. Reinforced hinges and screen hardware will prevent the display from moving or bouncing during touch interactions, addressing a common issue in existing touch-enabled PCs.
Performance and Hardware
The upcoming MacBook Pro models will be powered by Apple’s next-generation M6 chips. Gurman noted that due to the premium components, the 14-inch and 16-inch models are expected to cost slightly more than current versions.
Apple’s Touch Strategy
Apple has historically resisted touch-screen Macs, citing ergonomic concerns. Earlier attempts, such as the 2016 Touch Bar, which replaced the function keys with a touch strip, were removed after limited adoption. Slowing iPad growth and growing demand for touch-enabled PCs have influenced Apple’s reconsideration.
The iPad Magic Keyboard, which combines a touch display with a traditional keyboard and trackpad, demonstrated consumer interest in this approach. Adding touch to the MacBook Pro could encourage upgrades from MacBook Air or attract Windows PC users seeking a touch-enabled laptop.
Upcoming Macs and Features
In addition to the touch-screen MacBook Pro, Apple is planning:
- Updated MacBook Air models with M5 chips (codenamed J813 and J815), expected in spring.
- Refreshed Mac Studio and Mac mini models.
- External Mac monitors (codenamed J427 and J527).
Apple is also exploring Face ID for Macs, although this feature is expected several years away.
Market Approach
Apple is reportedly waiting to evaluate market response to the touch-enabled MacBook Pro before expanding touch features to other Mac models. This approach aligns with the company’s strategy of introducing new functionality on premium devices first.