M6 MacBook Pro: Everything about release, price and new features Apfelpatient

Apple is already working on the next generation of its MacBook Pro models, and everything indicates that the M6 MacBook Pro will be a major step forward. While the current base model was recently redesigned with the M5 chip, and the more powerful variants with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are scheduled to launch in early 2026, Apple is simultaneously preparing a completely new design with next-generation hardware features. The M6 MacBook Pro is likely to offer more than just a performance update—it could usher in a new chapter in the history of the MacBook Pro.

The MacBook Pro has evolved into one of the most versatile laptops on the market in recent years. Following the 2021 design redesign, Apple brought back many ports and focused on performance, stability, and flexibility. But the next update will be different: The upcoming M6 MacBook Pro is set to receive a complete redesign—with a new chip, new display, touchscreen, thinner chassis, and possibly 5G connectivity for the first time. While the M5 model is the final update of the current generation, the M6 marks the beginning of a new era for Apple's premium laptop.

M6 series chip: More performance through new manufacturing process

Apple plans to manufacture the M6 chip using a 2nm process—an improvement over the current 3nm process used in the M5 series. The chip could be the first to feature a new WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module) package, which integrates multiple components such as the CPU, GPU, DRAM, and Neural Engine into a single package. This ensures tighter connections between the modules and improves both performance and power efficiency. The switch to this technology should make the M6 significantly faster while also reducing power consumption. This is especially important for extending battery life and keeping heat generation low. With this step, Apple could once again significantly differentiate its chip architecture from the competition.

OLED display: Farewell to Mini-LED

Another major step forward for the M6 MacBook Pro is the switch to OLED displays. Several reports, including those from display analyst Ross Young and Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, indicate that Apple will have sufficient production capacity to integrate OLED into the MacBook Pro lineup starting in 2026. The new display promises not only deeper blacks and a higher contrast ratio, but also better energy efficiency. The result is more vibrant colors, more brightness, and longer battery life. At the same time, OLED enables a thinner display panel—which Apple uses to slimmer the entire chassis.

Thinner and lighter design

The next generation of MacBook Pro is expected to be thinner and lighter without sacrificing performance or battery life. Apple is basing its design on the M4 iPad Pro, which is considered the company's thinnest product. According to Mark Gurman, Apple is working on two new models, internally designated K114 (14-inch) and K116 (16-inch). Both are expected to feature a redesigned chassis that remains sturdy despite a slimmer profile and still offers familiar ports such as HDMI, SD card reader, and MagSafe. The challenge for Apple is to slim down the chassis without sacrificing the features that many users value in the current generation.

Punch-hole camera instead of notch

Something is also expected to change at the top of the screen. Apple plans to do away with the current notch on the new MacBook Pro. Instead, the device could feature a punch-hole camera – similar to the "Dynamic Island" design on the iPhone. This change has already been confirmed by Omdia and Mark Gurman. The camera would be integrated into a small hole at the top of the display, restoring a continuous line to the screen. This would create a more modern appearance and more space in the menu bar without sacrificing the camera.

Touchscreen with On-Cell technology

For the first time in the history of the MacBook Pro, Apple will integrate a touchscreen display, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The panel uses on-cell touch technology, in which the touch sensors are embedded directly into the top layer of the display. This eliminates the need for an additional touch layer, making the device thinner and lighter. The touch display doesn't replace a trackpad or keyboard, but rather complements the controls. Users can work with a mouse, touch, or a combination of both. This step demonstrates that Apple has closely observed iPad usage patterns and intends to meaningfully integrate touch functions into the Mac in the future.

Reinforced hinge for more stable operation

To ensure the display remains stable during typing and swiping, Apple is developing a reinforced hinge with higher torque. The display hardware is designed to prevent the lid from moving or flexing when touched—a problem common with many Windows laptops with touch functionality. According to Gurman, Apple is also working on improved damping to reduce vibration when touching the screen. The goal is smooth and stable operation without compromising design.

5G modem and mobile connectivity

The M6 MacBook Pro could bring cellular connectivity to the Mac lineup for the first time. Apple introduced the C1 modem chip in the iPhone 16e earlier this year and has already followed it up with a faster, more energy-efficient version, the C1X, in the iPhone Air. According to Gurman, Apple is investigating whether the upcoming C2 modem chip can be integrated into the MacBook Pro. This would support 5G mmWave, thus providing significantly faster speeds. This would mean that the MacBook Pro would no longer rely on Wi-Fi, but could remain connected directly via the cellular network—an important step for professionals working on the go.

Prices and possible publication

The M6 MacBook Pro is expected to be more expensive than the current generation. Prices for the 14-inch model currently start at €1,799, while the 16-inch model starts at €2,799. With the switch to OLED, the new chip, and the comprehensive redesign, the starting price is likely to increase by several hundred euros. According to Mark Gurman, the M6 MacBook Pro is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027. Before that, the high-end M5 versions will be released, which are scheduled to launch in early 2026. Two major updates in one year would be unusual, but not unprecedented—Apple also updated the MacBook Pro lineup twice in 2023.

The M6 MacBook Pro marks the next big step

The M6 MacBook Pro represents a new generation of Apple laptops. With the 2nm M6 chip, OLED touchscreen, thinner design, punch-hole camera, 5G modem, and redesigned mechanics, Apple is focusing on innovation rather than evolution. The device is expected to be not only more powerful, but also more modern, flexible, and energy-efficient. Those who skip the current M5 model will be rewarded with a truly new development with the M6 MacBook Pro – a MacBook that further pushes the boundaries between performance, mobility, and design. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including HomeKit-compatible ones. (Image: Shutterstock / AZFAR ARTS)