Apple is preparing a host of changes for the upcoming new MacBooks. No, not the rumoured M5 Pro and M5 Max powered high-end MacBook Pro models – this is about the successors that are expected to be released in 2026. Known in the tech world as the M6 MacBook Pro, this generation is expected to bring in notable upgrades that could make for a much better proposition for professionals.
The next-generation M6 MacBook Pro is expected to introduce a host of major features, including an OLED display, cellular connectivity, and a touchscreen – a long-anticipated feature on these ‘Pro-centric’ MacBooks.
While the current M5 chip series update for the MacBook Pro serves as the final version of the existing chassis, the highly anticipated M6 models, codenamed K114 and K116, are being readied for a late 2026 or early 2027 launch.
Hardware and design changes
The M6 MacBook Pro is set to receive the biggest overhaul since the 2021 redesign, focusing on a thinner and lighter chassis, similar to Apple’s recent M5 iPad Pro.
The new laptops will be powered by the M6 series chips, which are expected to utilise a completely new Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging and potentially be built on the cutting-edge 2nm process. This integration allows for more complex chipsets with tightly coupled components like the CPU, GPU, DRAM, and Neural Engine, promising a massive leap in performance and efficiency.
The MacBook Pro is also tipped to switch from mini-LED to OLED technology for the display. OLED panels have been around on premium Windows laptops for a while, and with this upgrade, MacBook Pro users will witness increased brightness, deeper blacks, a higher contrast ratio, and improved power efficiency, all of which directly contribute to longer battery life. Display analyst reports suggest the supply chain will be ready for mass production in 2026.
Apple is also rumoured to introduce a touchscreen display to the MacBook Pro. This decision comes from observations of iPad user behavior, suggesting touch controls enhance the user experience in certain scenarios. To combat the common issue of ‘display bounce’ (a wobbling display), Apple has reportedly developed a reinforced hinge and screen hardware to provide sufficient resistance for touch input.
User complaints about the display notch may also be addressed with the M6 MacBook Pro. According to several reports, the redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch models will adopt a hole-punch camera design at the top of the display, which could be similar to the Dynamic Island implementation found on recent iPhone Pro models.
Connectivity
Beyond performance and screen quality, the M6 MacBook Pro is expected to introduce a feature never before seen in the Mac lineup – 5G.
Apple is reportedly investigating the possibility of adding a second-generation custom-built C2 modem chip to the Mac for the first time. The C2 modem is expected to support faster mmWave 5G technology, providing high-speed cellular internet access, a feature common in rival Windows laptops. This should help MacBook Pro users reduce their reliance on Wi-Fi networks, especially for those who need to stay connected on the move.
M6 MacBook Pro expected price
Considering the cost of the advanced 2nm chips, OLED display, and new features, the redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are expected to see a fairly hefty price bump, likely increasing the current starting prices of $1,999 and $2,499 by several hundred dollars.
