Apple plans OLED MacBook Pro with touch and new design Apfelpatient

The MacBook Pro has been considered the most powerful model in the Mac lineup for years. Apple continues to set standards with new technologies and surprising design changes. A particularly big step is on the horizon for the coming years: the first OLED MacBook Pro with a touchscreen. Several analyst reports and insider information reveal where things are headed – with exciting details about the display, chips, and design.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared new information that could shape the future of the MacBook Pro. In addition to the switch to OLED, a touch panel is expected to be used for the first time. At the same time, various sources report on the chip roadmap, possible release dates, and differences from the planned, cheaper MacBook. This creates a comprehensive picture of how Apple plans to position its next generation of Pro laptops.

Touchscreen with On-Cell technology

According to Kuo , the OLED MacBook Pro will feature on-cell touch technology. The touch sensors are integrated directly into the top layer of the panel. This eliminates the need for an additional touch layer, making the display thinner and more efficient. Apple is apparently basing this on user behavior on the iPad, where it has been shown that touch inputs are not only practical in many scenarios but can also increase productivity.

Differences to the cheap MacBook

Unlike the Pro model, the new affordable MacBook, which is scheduled to go into mass production in the fourth quarter of this year, will initially not feature a touch display. However, Apple may plan to include touch support for the second generation of this model, expected in 2027. This means that the feature will remain exclusive to the MacBook Pro for the time being.

Samsung supplies the OLED displays

Samsung is expected to provide the displays for the first OLED MacBook Pro. This collaboration isn't new, as Apple already uses Samsung panels for its iPhones. However, it's still unclear which chip architecture Apple will use in its OLED models.

Roadmap: M5 and M6 chips under discussion

Rumors surrounding the chip strategy are leading to mixed expectations. Initially, there was talk that MacBook Pro models with M5 chips could appear in late 2025. However, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that Apple might postpone the release to early 2026. He later added that the MacBook Pro could feature an OLED display between late 2026 and early 2027. This would mean Apple would update the series twice in one year – a scenario that already occurred in 2023. Back then, Apple launched the models with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips in January, followed by the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max versions in October. This could mean an M5 release in January 2026 and an OLED model with an M6 chip in October of the same year.

Design changes to the OLED MacBook Pro

In addition to the switch to OLED and touchscreen, observers expect further visual changes. A thinner chassis and a smaller notch on the display are mentioned. This could significantly modernize the MacBook Pro not only technically but also visually.

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A new chapter for the MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro is facing a profound transformation. OLED technology, an on-cell touchscreen, a slimmer design, and new chips paint a clear picture of the next generation. While the more affordable MacBook will initially remain without touch, the Pro model could become the first true combination of iPad-like usability and Mac performance. Exactly when it will be released is still up in the air, but the direction clearly points to a major upgrade in 2026 and 2027. (Image: Shutterstock / Lazy Camel)