Apple’s 2026 Mac Roadmap: M5 Chips for Entire Lineup and New Affordable MacBook

Apple is planning a sweeping refresh of its Mac computers throughout 2026. The company will equip nearly every model with its next-generation M5 chip. This ambitious plan also includes the debut of a new low-cost MacBook.

According to sources including Bloomberg, this roadmap represents Apple’s most comprehensive Mac update cycle in years. The updates are designed to boost performance across the board, from consumer laptops to professional workstations.

M5 Chip Deployment and New Product Entries

The rollout is set to begin in early 2026. The MacBook Air and a new low-cost MacBook are among the first devices scheduled for updates. The MacBook Air will utilize the standard M5 chip already featured in the latest MacBook Pro.

Higher-end MacBook Pro models with new M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are also expected in early 2026. These chips will offer significant CPU and GPU improvements. Mid-2026 will see updates for the Mac mini and Mac Studio, with the latter expected to feature a powerful M5 Ultra chip.

Innovative Displays and Potential M6 Debut

Apple is also developing new external displays. A next-generation Studio Display with a mini-LED screen is reportedly in the works for a 2026 release. This would offer users superior brightness and color compared to the current LCD model.

The most significant innovation could arrive late in the year. Apple is developing a redesigned MacBook Pro with an OLED display and a potential touch screen. This high-end model might be among the first to feature an M6 chip, built on an advanced 2-nanometer process for greater efficiency and power.

The 2026 Mac lineup is poised for a major transformation, driven by the widespread adoption of the M5 chip. This strategic refresh underscores Apple’s commitment to maintaining performance leadership across its entire computer family.

Info at your fingertips

When will the M5 MacBook Air be released?

The MacBook Air with an M5 chip is expected to arrive in the first few months of 2026. It will be one of the first Macs to receive the update in the new year.

What is the new low-cost MacBook?

Apple is planning a new, affordable MacBook priced below the MacBook Air. It is expected to feature a 13-inch LCD display and could be powered by an A-series chip instead of an M-series processor.

Will there be a new MacBook Pro with a touch screen?

Yes, Apple is reportedly developing a revamped MacBook Pro with an OLED display and touch functionality. This model could launch in late 2026 or early 2027 alongside new M6 chips.

What is the most powerful Mac coming in 2026?

The Mac Studio with an M5 Ultra chip is set to be the performance flagship in mid-2026. The M5 Ultra will offer a substantial performance increase for professional users.

Are new Apple displays coming?

Apple has at least one new display in development, likely a Studio Display successor with mini-LED technology. A release is anticipated in 2026.