According to the latest rumors reported by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, Apple is preparing to launch two new high-end MacBooks this fall. After months of speculation, the picture has become clearer: on one side, an all-new MacBook Ultra with touchscreen design and M5 Pro and M5 Max chips; on the other, a refreshed MacBook Pro with the standard M6 processor. These developments mark a significant step in Apple's strategy for the professional and advanced consumer segments.
MacBook Ultra with Touchscreen and M5 Pro and M5 Max Chips
The MacBook Ultra will be the new flagship of the lineup, positioned above the MacBook Pro. According to reports, this device will feature a touchscreen display, a first for Apple laptops, and will be powered by the same M5 Pro and M5 Max chips already seen in high-end MacBook Pros launched months ago. The use of existing processors suggests Apple did not want to delay the launch further, instead focusing on innovative form factor and features to differentiate the MacBook Ultra. Rumors indicate a completely redesigned chassis with a flexible hinge enabling tablet-like use, similar to Microsoft's Surface but deeply integrated with macOS.
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New MacBook Pro M6 with Standard Chip
In parallel, Gurman confirmed that a new MacBook Pro with the M6 chip is expected this fall. This model, codenamed J804, will represent the refresh of the entry-level Pro line, equipped with the base M6 processor. The move is interesting because Apple seems to want to further separate the lines: while the MacBook Ultra aims for excellence with M5 Pro/Max and touch, the MacBook Pro M6 targets professionals who need power without frills. Sources indicate that the M6 chip will offer better performance than the M5, but not at the level of Pro and Max chips, which will instead be skipped to accelerate the development of high-end M7 chips.
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Apple Targets High-End M7 Chips
A key element from the reports is that Apple plans to skip the M6 Pro and M6 Max versions to focus directly on the M7 chip. This unusual decision indicates a desire to optimize development resources and bring even higher performance to the professional segment. The M7 could debut in 2027 on high-end MacBook Pros and possibly the Mac Pro. In the meantime, the MacBook Ultra with M5 Pro/Max will fill the gap for those seeking maximum performance this year.
What These New MacBooks Mean for Users
For users, fall 2026 promises a wealth of choices. Those wanting a powerful and versatile MacBook may find the MacBook Ultra ideal, thanks to the touchscreen that aids creative work and productivity. Those aiming for a traditional but updated professional laptop will opt for the MacBook Pro M6. However, prices could increase, as seen with recent hikes announced by Microsoft and Apple due to rising AI-related costs. For more information on the MacBook Pro, you can consult the Wikipedia page. With two major launches, Apple aims to recapture the spotlight after a period of relative calm, and enthusiasts are eager to get their hands on these machines.
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Source: https://9to5mac.com/2026/06/26/macbook-ultra-and-new-macbook-pro-both-launching-this-fall-per-rumors
