Apple will soon release its first touch-screen MacBooks in a higher tier than current Pro models, potentially carrying new names like Ultra or Studio, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reported. The new devices are scheduled for a debut this October or November, marking a significant hardware shift for the company’s portable computer lineup.
October and November Release Windows Target Touch Screens
Apple plans to unveil the new touch-capable portable computers in October, though the timeline could slip into November, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Jablickar reported that Apple is currently testing the new hardware with macOS 27.2, a beta version expected to see public release near the end of October. This software cycle aligns with a late autumn launch window for the redesigned computers. Gurman noted that these machines belong to a higher product tier situated above standard MacBook Pro models.
OLED Displays Replace LCDs and Introduce Dynamic Island
Jablickar noted that these OLED screens provide significantly deeper blacks and more impactful visuals than existing mini-LED panels. Apple is integrating a Dynamic Island cutout into the display to house the web camera while displaying active icons and interface graphics, replacing the notch design introduced five years ago.
M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips Drive Redesigned Chassis
The chassis receives a redesign resulting in a profile that is up to one millimeter thinner, a reduction driven primarily by the transition to OLED panels. Internal processing power comes from M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, though Jablickar noted that standard MacBook Pro models are rumored to skip ahead to M7 Pro and M7 Max chips next year. This chip generation gap suggests the new touch devices sit outside the regular product cycle. Additional hardware specifications discussed in industry reports include the potential inclusion of a 4G or 5G modem, which would allow the laptops to connect to cellular networks independently of an iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Apple officially announce the touch-screen laptops?
Apple is expected to reveal the new devices in October or November, according to Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman. Testing is currently underway using macOS 27.2 beta builds.
What display technology do the new MacBooks use?
The machines feature 14-inch and 16-inch OLED panels, replacing older LCD and mini-LED screens to deliver infinite contrast and faster response times.
What processors power the new touch-screen MacBooks?
The laptops use M5 Pro and M5 Max chips to handle computing tasks within the redesigned, thinner chassis.
Will the new laptops support cellular connectivity?
Reports indicate that Apple may include a 4G or 5G modem to give the computers direct cellular access without requiring an iPhone connection, though this feature remains unconfirmed.
Related reading