Apple has a strong lineup of new Macs expected next year, but there are two 2026 models in particular that seem set to kick off a new era for the Mac.

Early 2026: Brand new ‘MacBook’

Early next year, Apple is rumored to launch a brand new ‘MacBook’ product that’s the most affordable model in the lineup.

This new Mac is expected to have a 12.9-inch display, come in fun colors like blue, pink, and yellow, have an iPhone-class A18 Pro chip, and be priced around $599 or $699.

Apple has long resisted shipping a low-cost MacBook that can better compete with budget-friendly Chromebooks and PCs. But it seems the company is now ready to battle for greater Mac marketshare.

macOS updates have long focused on building greater interoperability with the iPhone. And there’s a massive base of iPhone users who opt against the Mac for their personal or work computer—with budget likely being a key factor.

With this low-cost MacBook, Apple has the chance to perhaps win over those Mac holdouts.

Late 2026: M6 MacBook Pro

Late next year, Apple is rumored to have a major revamp coming to the MacBook Pro.

While the low-cost MacBook makes the Mac more accessible to users, the M6 MacBook Pro could advance the platform in another way: by offering key upgrades like touchscreens and possibly a cellular option.

The M6 MacBook Pro is getting a full hardware redesign, making it thinner and lighter than before. It’s expected to have an OLED display, likely no notch, and be the first Mac with touch support.

It’s also rumored that Apple may offer a 5G cellular option with its forthcoming C2 in-house modem.

Even if cellular support doesn’t prove true, adding touch alone will make the M6 MacBook Pro a significant turning point for the Mac.

Apple has continuously shot down the idea of adding touch to the Mac. But the new MacBook Pro seems set to kickstart a new era for the platform.

Source: 9to5mac