Apple’s New MacBook Pro Rumours and M5 Series Updates

Apple is in the midst of reshaping its MacBook Pro strategy for 2026, with rumours swirling around both updated M5 Pro and M5 Max chips and a more ambitious MacBook Pro redesign further down the line. Reports indicate that Apple is preparing refreshed MacBook Pros equipped with its next-generation M5 Pro and M5 Max silicon, likely launching alongside macOS 26.3 — signalling a continuation of its transition to custom silicon across its laptop range.

The M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are expected to deliver significant performance boosts for creative professionals, bridging the gap between high-end mobile workflows and desktop-class performance in thin and light form factors. These models could debut with macOS 26.3 later this year, offering enhanced battery efficiency, GPU and CPU gains, and better thermals versus the prior M4-series models.

Beyond these iterative upgrades, reports from PhoneArena and others suggest Apple is also planning a more radical MacBook Pro redesign featuring an OLED display and touchscreen support, a first for the Pro laptop line. This would represent a departure from the traditional MacBook experience and align Apple more directly against premium Windows laptops that have embraced touch and OLED technology for richer visuals and interactive workflows. The OLED model is rumoured for a late-2026 release, potentially giving users a compelling reason to wait if they’re not in immediate need of an upgrade.

The potential for an Apple-branded touchscreen-equipped MacBook Pro has generated buzz because OLED panels offer deeper blacks, higher contrast, and better colour accuracy than the current mini-LED or LCD panels used in Apple’s laptops. Combined with touchscreen support, this could expand creative use cases, particularly for designers and artists.