Apple's MacBook Pro series has long been the benchmark for high-performance laptops, especially for creative professionals and power users. As we edge closer to the expected release of the MacBook Pro M6 in late 2026, the anticipation is palpable, especially given the radical changes rumored to be in the works. This upcoming model could redefine Apple's laptop lineup with a touchscreen OLED display, a revamped design, and the introduction of the M6 chip. But with an M5 refresh looming, is it worth the wait?
Design & Hardware
The MacBook Pro M6 is set to break new ground for Apple's laptops. According to reports, including those from Macworld and Tom's Guide, the most striking change will be the introduction of a touchscreen OLED display. This marks a significant shift from Apple's previous position against touch-enabled laptops, a stance they have held for years. The OLED screen is expected to be a Tandem OLED, similar to the Ultra Retina XDR display found in the iPad Pro, promising superior brightness and color accuracy.
In addition to the display, the MacBook Pro M6 will feature a thinner profile, edging closer to the MacBook Air's slim form factor. This will be achieved by adopting a punch-hole design for the FaceTime camera, eliminating the notch that currently houses it. This change not only modernizes the appearance but also maximizes the screen real estate.
Performance & Key Specs
Under the hood, the MacBook Pro M6 is expected to debut Apple's new M6 chip, manufactured using a cutting-edge 2-nanometer process. This advancement is anticipated to offer unprecedented power efficiency and performance, making it a powerhouse for demanding tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering. The leap from the M5 to the M6 chip could be one of the most significant in recent years, following Apple's tradition of substantial performance boosts with each generation.
Connectivity is another area where the M6 is expected to innovate. Rumors suggest the inclusion of 5G capabilities, leveraging Apple's in-house modems. This would be the first time a MacBook integrates cellular connectivity, providing users with constant internet access without relying on Wi-Fi.
Camera / Key Feature
The marquee feature of the MacBook Pro M6 will undoubtedly be its touchscreen capability. While Apple has resisted this trend in the past, the integration of a touchscreen aligns the MacBook with the iPad's user interface, potentially offering a seamless experience across devices. This change could also lead to significant updates in macOS 27, rumored to include design tweaks to better support multi-touch gestures.
For photographers and video creators, the punch-hole camera design will be a welcome change, as it allows for a more immersive display without sacrificing camera quality. This is part of Apple's broader strategy to streamline its devices' aesthetics while enhancing functionality.
Release Date & Pricing
The MacBook Pro M6 is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, corroborated by reports from Bloomberg and Macworld. This aligns with Apple's historic pattern of releasing new MacBook Pro models in the last quarter of the year. The introduction of OLED and touchscreen technology is expected to increase the price, potentially by at least $200 over current models, which currently range from $1,599 to $3,999.
The Bottom Line
For those considering a high-end MacBook Pro, the upcoming M6 model presents a compelling reason to wait. The integration of a touchscreen OLED display, the advanced M6 chip, and potential 5G connectivity mark it as a significant upgrade over the M5 models expected in early 2026. However, for those who need a laptop immediately, the M5 Pro and M5 Max will still offer excellent performance, albeit without the groundbreaking features of the M6.
In conclusion, if you're looking for cutting-edge technology and can afford to wait, the MacBook Pro M6 is shaping up to be worth the patience. However, if your current needs are pressing, the soon-to-be-released M5 models are a solid investment. The biggest unknowns remain the final price and availability, which could sway the decision for many potential buyers.