After many years, I’m truly looking forward to a new MacBook Pro.
As a Mac enthusiast, the journey through the entire butterfly keyboard issue was quite challenging, and I readily acknowledge that I have appreciated the tranquility that comes with the M-series MacBook Pros.
Although each new update hasn't completely amazed me, the performance and dependability have been a significant relief. However, after five years of using my M1 Pro MacBook Pro that I bought at launch, I feel it's time to upgrade to a new device.
If the latest leaks and rumors are accurate, the end of this year may be the perfect moment for an upgrade to a new MacBook Pro. Apple is rumored to be introducing a fully redesigned MacBook Pro later in 2026, and the extensive list of updates is enough to grab the attention of any Mac fan.
A brand new design after five years
The last major redesign of the MacBook Pro occurred in 2021, which was quite significant. It reintroduced ports that Apple had stubbornly eliminated, finally resolved the keyboard issues, and provided a thicker, more capable device.
While I appreciate the new design ethos, I must admit that I miss the sleeker, more portable shape, which the power-efficient M-series chipsets now make feasible.
Leaks indicate that the upcoming update will feature a “total redesign” with a slimmer and lighter chassis. I hope Apple maintains all the ports to avoid sparking another controversy, though personally, I wouldn’t mind if the HDMI port was removed.
Most new displays come with a USB-C port, and if eliminating the HDMI port leads to a slimmer design, I would gladly accept that trade.
The display is set for significant upgrades
This is where things get particularly intriguing. The M6 MacBook Pro is anticipated to introduce two major display improvements simultaneously: an OLED screen and a touchscreen.
OLED technology promises deeper blacks, enhanced contrast, and better viewing angles. Coupled with a thinner design, it should result in a remarkable display. If Apple employs the same tandem OLED technology found in the iPad Pro, we can also expect exceptional brightness.
The touchscreen is a more unexpected addition, and I’m uncertain about its viability. Reportedly, macOS 27 will enhance the UI to support common touch gestures, so we will get confirmation in a month during the WWDC 2026 event.
What I’m especially excited about is the removal of the notch. According to Mark Gurman, a hole-punch camera cutout and the Dynamic Island will replace it, facilitating Live Activities and other interactive features.
As mentioned in my best Mac utilities article, I currently use an app to enhance the notch, but I would really appreciate seeing official support for this change.
A performance boost that’s noteworthy
The M6 MacBook Pro will be equipped with a new generation of Apple Silicon built on a 2nm process. This marks a significant advancement from the current generation and should yield substantial improvements in CPU speed, GPU performance, and AI processing.
What excites me even more than the expected performance enhancements is the slim possibility that the M6 MacBook Pro could include Apple’s C2 modem for integrated cellular connectivity. Given that my work involves extensive travel, having built-in cellular capabilities would be immensely beneficial.
I wouldn’t bank on it, but it would be revolutionary if it comes to fruition.
The one aspect that might dampen my excitement
Now we reach the part that I’m not eager to face. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the M6 MacBook Pros may experience at least a 20% price hike. Other sources suggest that new models could increase by $200 to $400.
Considering all the enhancements and the current state of RAM prices due to AI developments, I can foresee the price increase being implemented, which I would not be pleased about.
I may still decide to go ahead and purchase one, but I hope against the odds that Apple either won’t raise the base price or, if it does, the base model comes with higher storage and RAM compared to the existing models.
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After many years, I’m truly looking forward to a new MacBook Pro.
There are rumors that Apple will introduce a fully redesigned MacBook Pro later this year, featuring a new chip, an OLED display, a touchscreen, and Dynamic Island. Here’s what excites me about it.
