Apple will improve the MacBook line in multiple ways during 2026. We’re not talking the usual “chip and ship” updates — major changes are on the way. Really, there’s never been a better time to be in the market for a macOS laptop.
We can look forward to a complete redesign, possibly including a touchscreen. Plus, the most affordable MacBook ever is also reportedly coming next year.
Apple has been playing it safe, but change is coming
The last major MacBook revamp came in 2021. The update introduced a flatter design with sharper edges, slimmer screen bezels and the return of some useful ports: MagSafe, HDMI and an SD card slot. Also, Apple dropped the Touch Bar, a slick feature that never caught on.
The notebooks signaled Apple’s willingness to reverse course on some controversial past decisions. The redesign came as part of the transition to Apple silicon, which provided a significant performance boost.
Subsequent MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models use the same general design, with screen sizes ranging from 13 inches to 16 inches. The only changes have been regular upgrades to the processors.
The first part of 2026 will continue that practice. New MacBook Pro models with the current design but sporting M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are rumored to launch in early 2026. But that’s just the start.
2026 could bring the best MacBook yet
Image: Google Gemini
MacBooks have used a great design since 2021, but there’s always room for improvement … and that’s coming later in 2026. According to multiple rumors, the next-generation MacBook Pro will include an OLED display for the first time, offering richer colors and better contrasts compared with current mini-LED screens, all while using less power.
We also expect a truly groundbreaking change: At least one of the new models is widely expected to be the first MacBook with a touchscreen, reversing Apple’s long-held aversion to touch interfaces on laptops.
Plus, the redesigned notebooks will reportedly use an even thinner, lighter chassis, with a hole-punch camera instead of the current screen notch.
The external changes will come along with new Apple M6 series processors for even better performance and efficiency. There could even be built-in cellular-wireless connectivity.
Just note that while fall 2026 is considered the most likely time for these redesigned MacBooks to launch, it’s possible we’ll have to wait until early 2027 instead.
Also, there are concerns about price. Putting in an OLED touchscreen is likely to drive up the cost of the 2026 MacBook. Adding OLED to iPad Pro in 2024 increased the cost by $200, for example.
Get ready for the most affordable MacBook yet
Concept: Google Gemini
With the premium MacBook Pro possibly getting even more expensive, Apple is apparently not abandoning those looking for a more affordable laptop.
Rumors indicate Apple is prepping a budget-friendly MacBook aimed at students and cost-conscious buyers, marking one of Cupertino’s first attempts to compete directly with affordable Chromebooks and low-end Windows notebooks.
While performance won’t come close to higher-end Macs, the device is expected to easily handle everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing and video watching. The low price should make the MacBook accessible to far more shoppers than ever before.
To keep costs down, this entry-level MacBook is widely expected to include a 13-inch or slightly smaller LCD display, use an A-series chip from an iPhone instead of the traditional M-series processor, and offer regular USB-C ports without Thunderbolt support.
It might come in multiple colors like silver, blue, pink and yellow to differentiate it from the premium lineup.
Rumored starting prices come in well under $1,000 — possibly as low as $599. And the budget MacBook could arrive in early 2026.
These are just some of the many products on drawing boards in Cupertino. Take a look at our full list of anticipated new Macs, iPhones and more coming from Apple in 2026.
Ed Hardy has been writing full-time about tech for 25 years, and using it for much longer than that. His intro to Apple was a Macintosh Classic II (which he still has), but now he uses a 13-inch iPad Pro as his primary computer. He’s written for NotebookReview, TabletPCReview, and Brighthand, as well as other sites.
