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Three new MacBooks will launch early next year, here’s what’s coming

The start of a new year is fast approaching, and with it several rumored new MacBooks launching in early 2026. Here’s what’s coming.

#1: M5 MacBook Air

Apple’s most popular Mac is getting an update in early 2026.

The next-generation MacBook Air will come with an M5 chip, but beyond that not much is known about it.

The M5 MacBook Air is expected to feature the same design as the M4 model and keep the 13-inch and 15-inch sizes. We may get a new color to replace sky blue, and likely several smaller enhancements.

This year the M4 model launched in early March, and we’re expecting a similar February-March timeframe for the new model.

#2: MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max

Apple M5 MacBook Pro best trade-in value-2

The M5 MacBook Pro just recently launched, but only the 14-inch model and with no Pro or Max chip options.

Early next year Apple is expected to launch higher end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring more powerful M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Like the current M5 model, the chip will be the main upgrade, with faster SSD performance and higher memory bandwith also expected.

If you’re looking to grab a new MacBook Pro, know that Apple has a completely redesigned model in the works with the M6 for as early as end-of-year 2026.

#3: Brand new 12.9-inch MacBook

What can we expect from Apple's rumored new MacBook, with an iPhone processor? | Renders of colorful MacBooks shown

Earlier this year, the M4 MacBook Air dropped its starting price to $999 (currently $749 on sale) and became one of Apple’s best-value products for users.

But in early 2026, Apple has an even lower-cost Mac model coming, likely named simply ‘MacBook.’

This ‘MacBook’ is rumored to feature:

  • 12.9-inch display
  • A18 Pro chip
  • colors might include silver, blue, pink, and yellow
  • price around $599 or $699

Despite the Mac being a very mature platform, Apple knows that there are still a huge number of iPhone users who opt for a PC or Chromebook rather than a Mac. Perhaps this low-cost MacBook can change that.

Which of these new MacBook products are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments.

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Avatar for Ryan Christoffel Ryan Christoffel

Ryan got his start in journalism as an Editor at MacStories, where he worked for four years covering Apple news, writing app reviews, and more. For two years he co-hosted the Adapt podcast on Relay FM, which focused entirely on the iPad. As a result, it should come as no surprise that his favorite Apple device is the iPad Pro.