A new report suggests that Apple may introduce a completely new high-end laptop later this year. According to Mark Gurman, Apple is working on a new MacBook featuring a touchscreen OLED display and next-generation M6-series chips.
Possible MacBook Ultra Branding
Earlier reports suggested that these upcoming laptops would replace the recently launched MacBook Pro (M5 Pro) and MacBook Pro (M5 Max) models. However, Gurman now believes that Apple might position the new device above the current MacBook Pro lineup.
Instead of replacing the existing models, Apple could introduce a new premium category called the MacBook Ultra. This would allow the company to create a more powerful laptop tier while keeping the current MacBook Pro lineup intact.
Touchscreen OLED Display
One of the biggest rumored changes is the introduction of a touchscreen OLED display on a MacBook for the first time. Apple has traditionally avoided touchscreen laptops, but this move could mark a major shift in its laptop design strategy.
OLED panels typically provide:
- Better contrast
- Deeper blacks
- More vibrant colors
- Improved energy efficiency
Adding touchscreen functionality could also make the MacBook more versatile for creative professionals and productivity users.
New M6-Series Chips
The new laptop is also expected to run on Apple M6 chips. While detailed specifications are not yet available, the M6 series will likely deliver significant improvements in performance and power efficiency compared to the current Apple M5 Pro and Apple M5 Max processors.
Higher Price Expected
Because of the new display technology and upgraded processors, the upcoming MacBook models could become more expensive. Gurman suggests that prices for the OLED touchscreen MacBooks may increase by up to 20% compared to current MacBook Pro models.
Apple’s Expanding MacBook Strategy
Apple appears to be expanding its MacBook lineup across different price segments. Recently, the company introduced the MacBook Neo, an entry-level MacBook priced starting at $599.
With the MacBook Neo targeting budget buyers and the rumored MacBook Ultra focusing on premium users, Apple may be building a tiered laptop strategy similar to its iPhone lineup.
Expected Launch Timeline
According to the report, the new OLED touchscreen MacBook models are expected to launch in Q4 2026, possibly toward the end of the year.
If these rumors turn out to be accurate, the MacBook Ultra could become Apple’s most powerful and expensive laptop yet, offering cutting-edge display technology and next-generation Apple Silicon performance.