The higher-end MacBook Pro models will undergo a significant overhaul by early 2027, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who also stated that Apple may utilise the “MacBook Ultra” name for them. In that case, the MacBook Ultra would probably be the most expensive model at the top of the MacBook lineup, completely above the MacBook Pro.
An OLED display, touch capabilities, a Dynamic Island, M6 Pro and M6 Max CPUs made using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process, a slimmer design, and integrated cellular connectivity are among the up to six new features that have been rumoured thus far.
Although the precise launch date is still unknown, Gurman recently stated that the global shortage of memory chips makes early 2027 appear more feasible than late 2026. Due to Apple’s limited RAM availability, the debut may be delayed. Remember that many of the following changes are not anticipated for the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M6 processor.
The MacBook Ultra would be the first significant redesign in at least five years, and many customers are waiting for it. Apple last redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with the release of the M1 Pro and M1 Max variants. We summarise the rumoured features of the MacBook Ultra below.
OLED Screen
It is expedted that they will be the first MacBooks that feature OLED screens, despite the fact that whether Apple employs the MacBook Pro or MacBook Ultra branding.
LCD screens with mini-LED illumination are a feature of the current MacBook Pro models. Because OLED technology has richer colours and a greater contrast ratio with true blacks, it would increase image quality.
With the possible exception of modified versions, every iPhone, Apple Watch, as well as iPad Pro model that Apple is currently salling has an OLED display.
Touch Screen
The MacBook Ultra will not only switch to an OLED display, but it also seems to include touch-screen functionality. This feature will allow Mac users to input data using both their fingers along with a keyboard, mouse, and trackpad.
Eventhough, Steve Jobs stated a long time ago that a touch-screen Mac would lead to arm fatigue, Apple frequently changes its mind.
Island of Dynamic
A hole-punch camera is another rumoured display-related upgrade for the MacBook Ultra, which will allow for a Dynamic Island rather than a notch.
The MacBook Ultra would be a step closer to a completely edge-to-edge display with tiny bezels if it had a Dynamic Island. Similar to the iPhone, the Dynamic Island would show things like AirPods connection indicators and short battery life notifications in the vicinity of the camera in the upper-center section of the screen.
M6 Max and M6 Pro Chips
It goes without saying that Apple’s upcoming M6 Pro and M6 Max CPUs are anticipated to power the MacBook Ultra. Notably, it is anticipated that these chips will be produced using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology, which should lead to higher performance and efficiency advantages than typical.
TSMC’s third-generation 3nm technology is used in the construction of the current M5 Pro and M5 Max chips.
Reduced Dimensions
In comparison to the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Ultra is anticipated to have a slimmer design. The switch from LCD with mini-LED backlighting to OLED would help make the design slimmer, and other modifications would also help.
We’ll see. As of right now, there’s no evidence that Apple intends to eliminate connectors like HDMI, MagSafe, or the SD card slot in order to accomplish this slimmer design. The last time that decision was made, it was highly unpopular.
Cellular
Although the Personal Hotspot feature on a nearby iPhone or iPad allows Macs to connect to a cellular network, Apple has apparently at least investigated integrating cellular connectivity into future Macs. The MacBook Ultra would probably have Apple’s C1X or next C2 modem for 5G and LTE if these plans were carried out.
