Apple is planning something big again. According to a current roadmap from market research company Omdia, the MacBook Pro could soon undergo an important change. The so-called "notch" at the top of the screen, which has been a trademark of the devices since 2021, is to disappear. But that's not all. In addition to a hole-punch camera, the introduction of OLED displays is also expected.
Since its launch, the MacBook Pro has set standards time and again - in terms of performance, design and technology. But the notch in the display, introduced as part of a larger redesign, was a controversial point for many. Now it looks like Apple wants to take a new path to put the criticism behind it. At the same time, the upcoming update could be more than just a visual improvement.
The end of the notch: Apple's new design
According to the roadmap of Omdia Apple plans to replace the notch with a hole-punch camera on the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models from 2026. This change would optimize the use of the macOS menu bar, as the additional space would be available for visible pixels. This means that the top bar of the screen would be more widely usable - a small but not unimportant step forward for user-friendliness. Another interesting detail is the possibility that Apple could transfer the concept of the "Dynamic Island" (known from the iPhone) to the Mac. With this feature, warnings such as low battery or notifications could be integrated into the area of the hole-punch camera. Whether this will actually happen remains unclear.
OLED displays: The next big step
The introduction of OLED displays in the MacBook Pro is another point that is due in 2026. So far, Apple has relied on mini-LED technology for these models, but OLED brings some decisive advantages:
- Higher brightness: This makes working in bright environments easier.
- Better contrast: Blacks are deeper and colors are more vivid.
- Energy efficiency: The new display technology consumes less power, which could improve battery life.
- Thinner design: OLED screens take up less space, which could make the device slimmer overall.
The switch to OLED will be part of a larger redesign, the first since 2021. With this step, Apple seems to want to set new standards not only technically but also visually.
What happens until then?
The basic design of the MacBook Pro will remain unchanged until 2026. However, regular hardware updates are planned. Models with the new M5, M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are expected to appear next year. These processors will probably offer even more performance and keep the devices competitive. It is also interesting that, according to Omdia, the MacBook Air will retain a notch until at least 2028. Apple seems to be deliberately maintaining differences between its product lines in order to further differentiate the MacBook Pro as a premium model.
MacBook Pro Update: A Big Leap Ahead
The future of the MacBook Pro looks exciting. By removing the notch and introducing OLED technology, Apple will once again show why its devices are leaders in the technology industry. However, we will have to wait until 2026 - until then, Apple will mainly be turning the performance screw. But it can already be said that the upcoming updates will make the MacBook Pro even more attractive. It remains exciting to see how these changes will work in practice and what surprises Apple may still have in store. (Photo by Unsplash / Joshua Woroniecki)
