Apple's first high-end MacBook redesign in five years, the "MacBook Ultra," is expected between late 2026 and early 2027, with Mark Gurman noting the later window is more likely due to a global memory chip shortage. Ming-Chi Kuo expects mass production by late 2026. The device would establish a new tier above the MacBook Pro, last redesigned in 2021 with M1 Pro chips.

Twelve features are rumored: OLED display using hybrid technology like the iPad Pro; touch screen input — a Mac first — with a "touch-friendly, not touch-first" approach; touch-optimized macOS with iPad-style gestures; reinforced hinge; hole-punch camera replacing the notch; Dynamic Island; M5 Pro and M5 Max chips (skipping M6); thinner design retaining ports; 14-inch and 16-inch sizes; slimmer bezels; and potential built-in cellular connectivity via Apple's C1X or C2 modem.

macOS 27 Golden Gate already hints at touch support through direct Sidecar input, pull-to-refresh gestures, and a pill-shaped Siri interface suited for Dynamic Island. However, buyers face awkward timing: the launch model uses existing M5 silicon, while a successor with M7 chips optimized for AI arrives potentially within a year. Pricing remains unknown but will exceed current MacBook Pro models starting at $1,999.