The MacBook Pro will get its first OLED display in 2026, marking the biggest upgrade to Apple’s professional laptop since 2021. The new models may also ditch the controversial notch design.
OLED Display Confirmed for 2026
Omdia analyst Linda Lin confirmed the 2026 timeline for MacBook models with OLED displays in a recent research note. While she didn’t specify which MacBook models, industry experts expect OLED to debut in MacBook Pro before reaching the MacBook Air.
The switch from mini-LED to OLED technology will bring several benefits:
- Increased brightness levels
- Higher contrast ratio with deeper blacks
- Improved power efficiency for longer battery life
- Better overall display quality
Major Redesign Coming
The 2026 MacBook Pro represents the first major design overhaul since Apple introduced the current design in 2021. Expected changes include:
OLED Display Technology
The new screen technology will provide better visual quality and potentially longer battery life.
Thinner Design
Apple plans to make the MacBook Pro thinner while maintaining performance capabilities.
M6 Chip Series
The laptops will feature Apple’s M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max processors, delivering significant performance improvements.
Notch May Disappear
In December 2024, Omdia made an intriguing claim about the camera design. The 2026 MacBook Pro models may feature a hole-punch camera at the top of the screen instead of the current notch.
This change would address one of the most criticized aspects of the current MacBook Pro design. The notch has been controversial since its introduction, with many users preferring a cleaner screen appearance.
However, it’s unclear if this rumor is accurate or if Apple still plans this change.
Should You Wait to Buy?
Current MacBook Pro buyers face a timing decision. Apple will likely update the MacBook Pro line with M5 series chips later in 2025, but this represents mainly a spec bump rather than a major upgrade.
The more significant changes – OLED display, redesigned body, and M6 chips – won’t arrive until October 2026.
Reasons to Wait:
- Major display technology upgrade
- First design refresh in five years
- Potentially better battery life
- More powerful M6 processors
Reasons to Buy Now:
- Current models already perform excellently
- Two-year wait for major upgrades
- M5 update coming later in 2025
Timeline Expectations
The 2026 MacBook Pro launch timeline aligns with Apple’s typical October announcements for professional Mac products. This gives the company time to refine OLED technology and finalize the redesign.
Apple has been working on OLED displays for MacBooks for several years. The 2026 launch suggests the technology has matured enough for Apple’s quality standards.
What This Means
The 2026 MacBook Pro update represents Apple’s biggest laptop upgrade in years. OLED technology will bring the MacBook Pro in line with premium smartphones and tablets that already use this display technology.
The potential notch removal shows Apple continues refining controversial design decisions based on user feedback. A hole-punch camera would provide a cleaner screen appearance while maintaining Face ID functionality.
For users with current MacBook Pro models, the 2026 update may be worth waiting for, especially if display quality and design are priorities. The combination of OLED, thinner design, and M6 performance could make it a compelling upgrade.
