'MacBook Ultra': What to expect from Apple's first touchscreen laptop
What's the story
Apple is all set to launch its first touchscreen MacBook, ending a decade-long wait for the feature in its Mac notebook line. The new device will be unveiled alongside the redesigned MacBook Pro, and is expected to be called the MacBook Ultra. The move comes after several hints were dropped in macOS 27, including Touch Support in Sidecar and pull-to-refresh support.
Display features
Tandem OLED display and smaller Dynamic Island
The upcoming MacBook Pro will feature a Tandem OLED display, similar to the iPad Pro.
This technology uses stacked OLED panels for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high brightness.
The device is also said to include a smaller version of Apple's Dynamic Island from the iPhone lineup, but it won't support Face ID.
User interface
Touchscreen MacBook Pro will have special software optimizations
Apple is expected to introduce special software optimizations for the first touchscreen MacBook Pro.
These will go beyond what has been seen in the macOS 27 betas.
The idea is to create a new kind of menu around a user's finger when they tap on a button or control, offering more relevant options for touch commands.
Specs and aesthetics
M5 Pro and M5 Max chips to power the device
The redesigned MacBook Pro will be powered by Apple's M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, skipping the debut of M6 Pro and Max to fast-track the development of M7.
The device is also expected to be slightly thinner and lighter than its predecessors, although it's not clear how much this will affect thermals.