Apple’s 2026 MacBook Pro Redesign: 6 Major Upgrades Coming

Apple is planning a significant redesign for its MacBook Pro lineup. The overhaul is expected to arrive in late 2026 or early 2027. This update will follow a routine M5 chip refresh anticipated for early 2026. The changes aim to fundamentally reshape Apple’s premium laptop.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the “true overhaul” is still a couple of years away. The upcoming redesign is set to introduce several groundbreaking features. These changes will impact both the 14-inch and 16-inch models.

OLED Display and Thinner Design Lead Major Changes

The most anticipated upgrade is the shift to OLED display technology. This move promises a superior visual experience. Research firm Omdia and analyst Ross Young both support this timeline.

OLED technology offers major advantages over the current mini-LED screens. It provides increased brightness and a higher contrast ratio. Users will also benefit from deeper blacks and improved power efficiency for longer battery life.

The new display will facilitate a thinner and lighter laptop chassis. Gurman has indicated this is a primary design goal for Apple. The company aims to deliver the thinnest possible device without compromising battery life.

This presents an interesting challenge. The MacBook Pro got thicker in its 2021 redesign to accommodate more ports. How Apple balances thinness with functionality remains a key question.

5G Connectivity and Notch Removal Add to Upgrade List

Apple is also investigating cellular connectivity for the Mac. A future MacBook Pro model could include Apple’s second-generation C2 modem chip. This would mark the first time a Mac features built-in cellular capabilities.

The modem would support faster mmWave technology. This goes beyond the sub-6GHz 5G speeds in current iPhone modems. Always-on internet would be a game-changer for professionals on the move.

The controversial display notch is also slated for removal. Omdia’s roadmap points to a hole-punch camera design. This change would free up additional screen real estate at the top of the display.

It could also introduce Dynamic Island functionality to the Mac. This would mirror the evolution seen in Apple’s iPhone lineup. The move addresses long-standing user feedback about the notch.

The 2026 MacBook Pro redesign represents Apple’s most ambitious laptop update in years, combining cutting-edge display technology with revolutionary connectivity and a refined form factor.

Thought you’d like to know-

When will the new MacBook Pro be released?

The major redesign is expected in late 2026 or early 2027. A routine update with M5 chips will likely come first in early 2026.

What are the benefits of an OLED display?

OLED offers higher brightness, better contrast, deeper blacks, and improved power efficiency. This translates to better image quality and potentially longer battery life.

Will the new MacBook Pro have cellular connectivity?

Apple is investigating adding its C2 modem chip for 5G connectivity. This would provide always-on internet without needing Wi-Fi or phone tethering.

Is the notch being removed?

Yes, reports indicate Apple will replace the notch with a hole-punch camera. This design change will provide more usable screen space.

Will the MacBook Pro have a touch screen?

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the OLED model will feature touch screen capability. This would mark Apple’s first touch-enabled MacBook Pro.

What chip will the redesigned MacBook Pro use?

The overhauled models are expected to feature M6 series chips. These could be built on a more advanced 2nm process for better performance.

Trusted Sources: Bloomberg, Omdia, Ross Young, Ming-Chi Kuo