Apple may be slowing down Mac launches for the rest of 2025, but it looks like 2026 could be a major comeback year for the company’s computer lineup. During Apple’s most recent earnings call, CEO Tim Cook hinted that no new Mac models would be released this quarter. That’s a notable shift compared to the same period last year, when the company rolled out the complete M4 MacBook Pro lineup, a refreshed Mac mini, and several other updates.
However, Apple’s next wave of Mac innovation appears to be just around the corner. In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that 2026 could mark a “significant year” for the Mac, with a major MacBook Pro overhaul, the debut of a new entry-level model, and broad upgrades across the hardware lineup.
The M5 Family Takes Shape
According to Gurman, Apple is preparing an entire lineup of M5 chips — including the base M5, M5 Pro, M5 Max, and M5 Ultra variants — as part of its next-generation silicon roadmap. Depending on Apple’s internal schedule, the company could even begin testing or unveiling the M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max chips before the end of 2026.
Early in 2026, Apple is expected to introduce new MacBook Pro models powered by the M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. Following last month’s debut of the base M5 MacBook Pro, these new versions are anticipated to deliver substantial improvements in AI performance and graphics capabilities. Alongside them, an updated M5-powered MacBook Air could also launch in the same quarter.
By midyear, Apple is rumored to refresh the Mac mini with M5 and M5 Pro chips, followed by the release of the Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra configurations. Although Apple previously indicated it wouldn’t launch an Ultra chip with every generation, the company now seems poised to go all-in with the full M5 lineup.
A New Budget MacBook and a Glimpse at the M6
Toward the end of 2026, Apple is reportedly developing a completely new low-cost MacBook, powered by an iPhone-class chip. This model could serve as Apple’s first major step toward expanding its Mac ecosystem to more budget-conscious buyers.
At the same time, the company is believed to be preparing the first M6 MacBook Pro. This device is rumored to introduce an all-new design featuring an OLED display, potential touchscreen integration, and several other major updates. Gurman cautions, however, that the M6 Pro and M6 Max configurations might slip into early 2027 if development timelines change.
Even with a quiet finish to 2025, the Mac lineup looks primed for a powerful rebound — one that could redefine Apple’s approach to performance, design, and accessibility across its computers in 2026.
