- Reputable Apple watcher says M6 Pro and M6 Max MacBook Pro models will be the only ones with OLED redesign
- Both models are planned between late 2026 and early 2027
- The base M6 MacBook Pro can be stuck with the current mini-LED technology
We’re in the final stages of 2025, which means Apple’s rumored M5 Pro, Ultra and Max chips could be closer, with an expected early 2026 release. However, there’s no good news for fans anticipating Apple’s M6 launch in terms of a major redesign coming to all models.
As reported by Wccftech, Apple’s M6 Pro and M6 Max MacBook Pro models will be only those receiving the rumored OLED redesign, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. These models are scheduled to be launched between the end of 2026 and the beginning of 2027, with Apple making a big departure from its usual mini-LED technology, a thinner chassis and touch support.
Wccftech states that it has been aware of this exclusivity plan from Apple, and since Gurman’s credibility is solid, it seems that this could very well be the case – and that’s bad news for many Apple fans.
We may see base variants of the M6 MacBooks launched without a redesign, so if fans want an OLED experience, the only way to do it may be to buy expensive M6 Pro or M6 Max models (at least with the initial launch) – and if I’m honest, it will be a bit of a surprise to see if Apple takes this route.
It’s not unlike Apple to stick to exclusivity, but given how big a leap it is to go from mini-LED to OLED, it’s a bold move and one that’s sure to annoy some of its consumers. Many Apple fans may not need, nor can they afford, the power that the expected M6 Pro or M6 Max chips will provide.
Analysis: It seems like it could be a case of gatekeeping and I don’t think it’s fair
While I’d say it’s possible that OLED will come to the next MacBook Pro model (after the M6), it feels like this is Apple’s way of tricking consumers into paying more for the M6 Pro and M6 Max models, keeping the OLED upgrade from those who can only settle for base models.
As much as I’ve given Lenovo criticism with its new Lenovo Legion Go 2 handheld for its price, at least it’s given every consumer who buys the device an OLED display – and yes, I’m fully aware that MacBooks and gaming handhelds are very different, but that’s the point of gatekeeping that matters here.
Fortunately, the mini-LED technology Apple has been using for years still holds up very well, especially with no worries about burn-in or any kind of OLED maintenance. We’ll just have to wait and see when Apple decides to make OLED the primary display type for all their MacBook models – and hopefully it won’t be too long.
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