A new report claims that Apple will not upgrade the processors for its expected touch MacBook Pro, while models using with an M7 designed for heavy AI workloads will follow from late 2027.
Previous reports that Apple intends to skip the M6 processor presumed that it was for later models rather than the forthcoming MacBook Pro with a touch OLED display. Now it seems that this MacBook Pro won’t get an M6, and instead will stay with the present M5 generation.
According to Bloomberg, the first touch MacBook Pro model will use the M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. New 14-inch and 16-inch models, codenamed K114 and K116, have previously been expected at the end of 2026.
Some reports have predicted that the global chip shortage may mean them moving to early 2027. This new report hedges the release date, saying only that they will be launched between late 2026 and early 2027.
The processors will be older than predicted, but otherwise the touch MacBook Pro will see a brand-new design. It will be the first visible redesign since the current form of high-end MacBook Pro came out in 2021.
This goes against previous rumors that said the overall look of the new MacBook Pro will remain the same. But it is also predicted to add an iPhone-style Dynamic island, as well as having a touch screen.
Second generation touchscreen MacBook Pro
The same report does also say that there will be an update to these models with M7 Pro and M7 Max processors. Those versions are reportedly in advanced testing, and may launch at the end of 2027.
Apple is also said to be planning a Mac Studio using the M7 Max and M7 Ultra processors. Those are now predicted to launch in 2028.
The benefit of the new M7 design is said to be that they are made to accelerate processing of AI models. They feature neural accelerators, expanded memory bandwidth, and also have improved graphics performance.
Separately, it’s previously been reported that Intel may be used to manufacture the M7 processor. That would be the lower end model, the M7 instead of the M7 Pro, M7 Max, or M7 Ultra.
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
