Apple Gears Up for Major Mac Lineup Refresh with M5 Chips and Future OLED Redesign
According to a recent report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing for an exceptionally busy first half of 2026 with multiple new Mac releases expected. The technology giant appears to be following a strategic two-phase approach: immediate performance upgrades followed by a more substantial design overhaul later in the year.
Immediate Wave of M5-Powered Mac Updates
In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman reveals that Apple plans to launch updated versions of several key Mac models within the first six months of 2026. The initial focus will center on internal enhancements rather than external redesigns, with the following devices expected to receive attention:
- MacBook Pro models featuring next-generation M5 Pro and M5 Max chips
- MacBook Air transitioning to the standard M5 chip
- Mac Studio gaining higher-end silicon including M5 Max and potentially a new M5 Ultra chip
- Studio Display receiving unspecified updates
The updated MacBook Pro models could arrive as early as this week, potentially coinciding with Apple's rumored Creator Studio bundle launch on Wednesday, 28 January. This timing suggests Apple is strategically aligning hardware and software releases to maximize impact.
Major MacBook Pro Redesign Planned for Late 2026
Beyond these immediate updates, Apple is reportedly working on a more dramatic overhaul of the MacBook Pro that could debut towards the end of 2026, though a potential slip into 2027 hasn't been completely ruled out. This future redesign represents a significant departure from current models and is rumored to include several groundbreaking features:
- OLED touch screen technology for the first time on a MacBook Pro
- A thinner and more refined chassis design
- A Dynamic Island-style interface element similar to recent iPhone models
- Next-generation M6 Pro and M6 Max chips for enhanced performance
- Built-in cellular connectivity for greater mobility
If this timeline holds, it would mark the second time in recent years that the MacBook Pro line receives two updates within a single calendar year. Apple previously executed this strategy in 2023 when M2 Pro and M2 Max models launched in January, followed by M3 Pro and M3 Max versions in October.
Strategic Implications for Apple's Product Roadmap
This reported approach demonstrates Apple's continued commitment to incremental innovation combined with periodic major redesigns. The initial M5 chip upgrades across multiple product lines suggest Apple is focusing on maintaining performance leadership in the competitive laptop and desktop markets.
Meanwhile, the planned 2026 MacBook Pro redesign with OLED technology represents Apple's response to growing consumer demand for superior display quality and more versatile form factors. The inclusion of cellular connectivity would address a long-standing request from professional users who require constant internet access without relying on Wi-Fi hotspots or tethering to mobile devices.
For consumers and professionals alike, this dual-phase update strategy means that those seeking immediate performance improvements can look forward to early 2026 releases, while those willing to wait for more substantial design changes might find the late 2026 OLED models more appealing. This approach allows Apple to cater to different market segments simultaneously while maintaining momentum in its product refresh cycles.
