Apple could be ready to take the MacBook to a new level. The company is reportedly working on a high-end MacBook Ultra with a thinner body, OLED display, and touchscreen support. Instead of replacing existing M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models, Apple is planning to make Ultra a separate, higher-tier option.
The most notable shift that Apple is reportedly making includes a mini-LED-to-OLED change. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman hinted at a full OLED display that produces deeper blacks and sharper contrast. If this comes true, MacBook Ultra will bring a much better display than other Apple laptops.
Talking about the chips, Apple is reportedly planning M7 Pro and M7 Max chips next, skipping the M6 series. So, MacBook Ultra may have M7 chips to run on. The price, however, could make the laptop a tough sell. Reports say the new MacBook series will be costlier than MacBook Pro. In India, the 14-inch M5 Pro model costs Rs. 2,99,900, and the 16-inch version is priced at Rs. 3,59,900. Now, if the upcoming one becomes more expensive, it will be beyond access range for most users.
Apple has kept touchscreens away from its MacBooks for years. The iPad has filled that role instead. A touchscreen MacBook could change that line. Users could tap, swipe, and interact with apps directly on the screen. This could be useful for drawing, photo work and other tasks. However, Apple would also need to keep enough differences between the MacBook and iPad.
The MacBook Ultra is still only a reported product. Apple has not confirmed its launch, price or final design. If the laptop does arrive with an OLED screen, touch support and a thinner body, it could give MacBook fans a new top-end option. The bigger question will be simple: will buyers pay the extra money for these upgrades?