Although only last month the MacBook Pro models in 14 and 16 inches received a hardware update with the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, it seems that the truly significant changes are just around the corner. According to a report by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is planning a comprehensive redesign of its premium laptop series, which may include rebranding under the name "MacBook Ultra". If the move indeed materializes, the Ultra will be positioned as the most expensive and advanced model in the company’s lineup, standing above the familiar MacBook Pro.
The last time Apple made a drastic design change to the Pro series was in 2021, with the launch of the M1 models. Now, five years later, the company appears to be preparing for a technological leap that includes six major innovations. The highlight is the transition to OLED displays, a technology already present in iPhones, watches, and the iPad Pro. The shift from the current LCD panel will allow for significantly improved image quality, with richer colors and a higher contrast ratio thanks to true black. In addition, the screen is expected to include touch capabilities for the first time, allowing users to combine the use of a keyboard and mouse with direct interaction with the display – a move Apple has previously avoided, citing user fatigue.
In terms of design and hardware, the MacBook Ultra is expected to be thinner than current models, partly due to the use of OLED technology, which takes up less physical space. Despite concerns based on past experience, there is currently no indication that Apple will once again remove popular ports such as HDMI or the SD card reader to achieve the slim design. Inside the computer will operate the next-generation chips, M6 Pro and M6 Max, which will be manufactured using an advanced 2-nanometer process at TSMC facilities. The new chips are expected to show a significant improvement in performance and energy efficiency compared to the M5 chips manufactured using a 3-nanometer process.
In addition, Apple plans to integrate the Dynamic Island, familiar from the iPhone, at the top of the screen, replacing the current notch (Notch) and displaying notifications such as battery status and headphone connection in an interactive way. Another innovation under consideration is built-in cellular connectivity (5G/LTE), which will eliminate the need for a mobile hotspot and make the computer completely independent in the field. While the original plans aimed for the end of 2026, a global shortage of memory chips may delay the launch to the beginning of 2027, making the wait for brand enthusiasts slightly longer, but one that promises the biggest change in Mac computers in years.