Apple is reportedly preparing a major redesign for its upcoming MacBook Ultra, with the new design expected to serve as the blueprint for the company’s premium notebook lineup over the next several years.
According to reports citing Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to gradually introduce the MacBook Ultra’s redesigned chassis across other Mac models, including the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro expected to launch in 2027 with the next-generation M7 chip.
Thinner and Lighter Chassis Expected
The MacBook Ultra is expected to feature a noticeably slimmer and lighter design than current MacBook Pro models.
The redesign is reportedly made possible by replacing Apple’s existing mini-LED display technology with a hybrid OLED panel, which removes the need for a separate backlight layer and allows for a thinner overall chassis.
Despite the slimmer profile, Apple is expected to retain several professional features that users value, including:
- HDMI port
- SD card slot
- MagSafe charging
This suggests the company will avoid repeating the controversial port removals introduced with the 2016 MacBook Pro redesign.
Display Could Lose the Notch
Another significant change may involve the display.
Reports indicate Apple could replace the current screen notch with a smaller pill-shaped camera cutout, potentially paving the way for a Dynamic Island-style interface similar to recent iPhone models.
Display size reports remain mixed. Research firm Omdia has suggested Apple could slightly increase screen sizes to 14.3 inches and 16.3 inches by reducing bezel thickness, while Bloomberg has previously reported that the overall display sizes may remain unchanged.
Apple May Finally Bring Touchscreen to the Mac
The report also suggests Apple is developing a reinforced hinge for what could become the company’s first touchscreen Mac notebook.
According to Bloomberg, Apple is designing the touchscreen experience to be “touch-friendly, not touch-first,” meaning the keyboard and trackpad will continue to serve as the primary input methods while touch functionality provides additional convenience.
MacBook Ultra’s Design Could Expand Across the Lineup
Apple has not confirmed whether the MacBook Ultra will replace high-end MacBook Pro models or become a new flagship tier above the Pro lineup.
However, if the reported roadmap proves accurate, the redesigned chassis is expected to roll out across Apple’s premium Mac notebook range by late 2027, establishing a new design language for future high-performance MacBooks.
