All-new MacBook Pro design reportedly set to launch in Q4

Apple's MacBook Pro lineup is poised for a major transformation later this year, with supply chain reports indicating that the company's first OLED-equipped MacBook Pro will launch in the final quarter of 2026.

Two MacBook Pro launches coming in 2026

This year will bring two distinct MacBook Pro updates. The first, expected imminently, will be an M5 Pro and M5 Max refresh of the current design. These chips are rumored to deliver "astounding" Geekbench scores and may offer greater flexibility with CPU and GPU configurations. The launch timing has shifted from an expected debut alongside Apple Creator Studio to a likely release with macOS 26.3 in the coming weeks.

However, the more significant update is the all-new MacBook Pro design slated for Q4. This marks the first major form factor change in five years, addressing long-standing user requests for a slimmer profile and modernized display technology.

OLED display and punch-hole camera design

The most exciting change is Apple's transition from IPS LCD to OLED technology. Samsung Display is manufacturing the OLED panels for both 14-inch and 16-inch models, with production targeting 2 million units by year's end. This switch promises deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and potentially improved battery life compared to the current LCD panels.

Design changes include a slimmer chassis and a punch-hole cutout for the FaceTime camera, replacing the controversial notch introduced in 2021. This approach, similar to what's used in many smartphones, should provide more screen real estate for menu bars and status indicators.

Touchscreen rumors and Apple-specific components

There's also speculation about Apple potentially introducing a touchscreen for the first time on a MacBook Pro. While this remains unconfirmed, it would represent a significant shift in Apple's laptop strategy, bringing MacBook Pros closer in functionality to iPad Pros.

According to supply chain reports, while Samsung is prepared to manufacture the OLED displays themselves, some Apple-specific components required for the new design are still not ready. This suggests Apple is pushing the boundaries of display technology integration, potentially including new backlight systems or touch layer implementations.

What this means for potential buyers

For current MacBook Pro owners considering an upgrade, the choice becomes whether to purchase the upcoming M5 Pro/Max models or wait for the redesigned Q4 version. The M5 refresh offers immediate performance gains, while the all-new design delivers the form factor and display improvements many users have been requesting.

The Q4 launch timing aligns with Apple's typical product cycle, allowing the company to showcase the new MacBook Pros at a fall event alongside other product updates. With OLED technology finally coming to the MacBook Pro line, this redesign could be one of the most significant laptop updates from Apple in recent years.

Are you planning to upgrade to the all-new MacBook Pro when it launches? The combination of OLED display technology, slimmer design, and potential touchscreen functionality makes this one of the most anticipated Apple product releases of 2026.