If you're currently considering buying a new MacBook Pro but aren't sure whether you should wait, it's worth taking a look at what's expected for 2026. According to well-informed sources, Apple is working on one of the biggest MacBook Pro redesigns in years. Here's what to expect.
In October 2024, Apple redesigned the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. The devices were equipped with the new M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. The more powerful models also received Thunderbolt 5 ports and some changes to the display. It was an interesting update, but it looks like Apple will be launching the next major development phase as early as 2026. Apple insider Mark Gurman expects the 2025 models with M5 chips to bring only moderate improvements. The truly big leap isn't expected until 2026—and that affects not only the technology but also the design.
OLED display instead of Mini-LED
The MacBook Pro currently uses Mini-LED displays. This could change in 2026. Several sources, including analysts at Omdia and Ross Young, expect Apple to switch to OLED starting in 2026. The technology offers several clear advantages:
- Higher maximum brightness
- Significantly better contrast values with true black tones
- Lower power consumption, which improves battery life
This would give Apple the opportunity to significantly improve image quality while simultaneously working more efficiently. Omdia believes it's highly likely that OLED will be used in MacBook Pro models as early as next year. Apple's supply chain is expected to have the necessary capacity by then.
Thinner and lighter design
Another effect of OLED technology could be a significantly slimmer design. OLED displays require less space than mini-LEDs. This allows Apple to make the cases thinner and lighter. According to Mark Gurman, Apple is pursuing precisely this goal. He says that the new iPad Pro, introduced in May 2024, marked the beginning of a new generation of ultra-thin devices. Work is currently underway on the MacBook Pro, which will be significantly slimmer without compromising on battery life or key features. This is remarkable, given that Apple only returned to more ports and a thicker case with the MacBook Pro in 2021. The challenge now is to strike a balance: a thinner design but no loss of functionality.
No more notch – instead hole-punch camera
One thing that bothers many users is the notch, the cutout at the top of the display for the camera. According to a roadmap published by Omdia, this notch could be history for the 2026 MacBook Pro. Instead, Apple is expected to use a so-called hole-punch camera—a small camera lens embedded directly into the display. The advantages would be:
- More usable space on the screen
- No more visually disturbing interruptions
- More modern overall appearance
This change would be a clear design upgrade and would make the display look more coherent overall.
Mobile connectivity in the MacBook Pro – 5G connection possible
Currently, MacBook Pro models only have Wi-Fi connections. This could change in 2026. Apple has been working on its own 5G modem chip for years. The first generation of this chip will be installed in the iPhone 16e, with the iPhone 17 Air to follow. This is how Apple plans to test the technology in advance. According to Mark Gurman, Apple will then examine whether it makes sense to integrate it into MacBooks. A second generation of the chip, supporting mmWave technology, could be available from 2026. This would make a MacBook Pro with a true mobile data connection conceivable—meaning 5G connectivity without a hotspot or external modem.
M6 chip with 2nm manufacturing and new package design
The current M4 chips are based on TSMC's N3E process, or 3nm technology. The M5 chips, planned for 2025, are expected to be based on the improved N3P process. The next big leap will follow in 2026 with the M6. There are several exciting points here:
- The M6 could be the first Apple chip to be manufactured using the 2nm process
- Apple could use a new housing design, the so-called WMCM (Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module)
- This chassis allows for tighter integration of CPU, GPU, RAM and Neural Engine in a single module
The effect: more power, greater efficiency, and overall more powerful devices. This isn't officially confirmed yet, but there are increasing indications that Apple is working on precisely this structure.
MacBook Pro 2026: The wait could be worth it
If you're currently considering whether to buy a MacBook Pro, it's worth looking into the near future. Fall 2026 could see one of the biggest updates in the series. A new OLED display, a significantly thinner design, the end of the notch, possible 5G connectivity, and a new M6 chip with state-of-the-art manufacturing technology suggest that Apple is planning a true generational leap. If you don't absolutely need a new device now, it might be worth waiting a bit longer. The 2026 MacBook Pro has the potential to become the benchmark for years to come. The best accessories in one place: Our Amazon Storefront offers you top products, including those for your HomeKit! (Photo by Unsplash / amt8u)
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