New MacBook Pro Nears Production, Major Upgrades in 2026

Two MacBook Pro laptops half-open, facing opposite directions.

Apple’s next-generation MacBook Pro models are moving closer to mass production, according to industry reports. The laptops are expected to launch between late 2025 and early 2026, giving customers access to upgraded performance within the next six months.

Powered by M5 Chips

The new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models will feature Apple’s upcoming M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips. These processors aim to deliver more speed and efficiency but will not come with major design changes. Apple has previously followed this pattern, updating internal chips while keeping the overall look consistent.

Two MacBook Pro laptops half-open, facing opposite directions.

Four Major Changes Coming in 2026

Bigger updates are scheduled for late 2026. Apple is preparing four headline features:

  • OLED displays with deeper contrast and richer colors.
  • Touchscreens, marking a major shift in Mac design philosophy.
  • A thinner chassis, following Apple’s trend toward slimmer devices.
  • New M6 series chips, built with TSMC’s advanced 2nm process for greater performance

Reports also suggest Apple could shrink the camera notch and potentially add cellular connectivity, similar to the custom modems now in iPhones.

The Bigger Picture

Apple last updated the MacBook Pro in January 2023 with the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. Delaying the next release until early 2026 would follow that precedent. However, the more significant upgrades arriving in late 2026 reflect Apple’s longer-term strategy to keep the MacBook Pro competitive against rivals and appealing to professional users.

With mass production beginning soon, customers should see the next MacBook Pro available to order by March 2026. But those looking for the most dramatic improvements may decide to wait until the 2026 models arrive.

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