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MacVoices #26283: Live! – ‘Pro and Tell,’ Duo Delays, Apple at $5 Trillion, and Affinity for iPad

✇MacVoices
By: Chuck
21 October 2026 at 22:21
Apple’s upcoming “Pro and Tell” event sparks speculation about new MacBook Pro models, while iPhone Duo preorders raise questions about shipping delays and retail availability. The panel discusses Apple’s $5 trillion valuation, why HomeView won’t launch in the European Union, and the anticipated arrival of Affinity Studio on iPad, including how it could transform creative workflows and provide yet another powerful alternative to Adobe Creative Cloud. 

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Meta drops the word "train" from its commercial TOS after AI backlash

✇Ars Technica - All
By: Ashley Belanger
20 October 2026 at 21:07

Hoping to quell criticism, Meta has dropped the word “train” from its “streamlined” commercial terms of service that kick in on October 30.

Last week, Meta faced backlash after legal experts warned that the tech giant’s sweeping new commercial terms of service seemed to give Meta permission to endlessly scrape websites linked on business pages. Talking to Nieman Lab, experts suggested that Meta could possibly use the policy to avoid millions in licensing fees from news organizations by requiring all business users to share a wealth of AI training data simply for running a business page.

A Meta spokesperson confirmed that Meta did not alert users to the changed language following backlash. This potentially only adds to confusion ahead of the policy rollout. In response to backlash, Meta's spokesperson provided a statement to Ars, acknowledging Nieman Lab's initial report but not its follow-up report reiterating experts' concerns:

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Touchscreen MacBook Pro: OLED, design and release date rumors

✇Macworld
20 October 2026 at 15:51

Macworld

Apple could be just days away from unveiling its first touchscreen MacBook Pro. The company is holding a media event on October 28, 2026, when it is expected to reveal the first touchscreen MacBook Pro as part of one of the biggest redesigns in the laptop’s history, combining a new chassis with Apple’s first OLED MacBook display and potentially even an iPhone-style Dynamic Island camera cutout. If the rumors are accurate, this could be one of the biggest changes to the MacBook Pro in its history.

The touchscreen MacBook Pro has been the subject of speculation ever since Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman first reported in 2023 that Apple was exploring the idea. At the time, the claim seemed hard to believe given Apple’s long-standing opposition to touchscreen laptops. Three years later, however, multiple reports suggest Apple has overcome the technical and design challenges that previously stood in the way.

The timing would be fitting. The MacBook Pro celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2026, and Apple could mark the milestone with a feature many believed would never come to the Mac. Touchscreen support would also help further differentiate the MacBook Pro from the MacBook Air and the budget-friendly MacBook Neo.

The redesigned touchscreen MacBook Pro is expected to be a premium model featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max processors, rather than the newer M6 chip. Apple is separately preparing a standard 14-inch M6 MacBook Pro, which is expected to retain the existing design. For more on that model, see our M6 MacBook Pro release date and specs guide.

There are still questions over pricing and availability. OLED panels and ongoing supply-chain pressures could make the touchscreen models more expensive than today’s MacBook Pro, while touch support is expected to remain exclusive to Apple’s premium laptops initially. Read on for everything we know about the touchscreen MacBook Pro’s expected release date, design, specifications and price, including what Apple could announce on October 28.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro release date: When will it launch?

  • Apple media experience confirmed for October 28; touchscreen MacBook Pro announcement expected

On October 19, Apple announced a media event, dubbed “Pro and Tell” on October 28, 2026. This is expected to be the introduction of new Macs, including the touchscreen MacBook Pro.

Can’t wait to pro and tell next week. pic.twitter.com/3wUkxwq35i

— Greg Joswiak (@gregjoz) October 19, 2026

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported on October 8 that Apple plans to announce its first touchscreen MacBook on October 27. The launch will reportedly include an online video presentation and an in-person component for the press on October 28. In his Power On podcast, Gurman said the laptop will start shipping on November 6.

Earlier reports offered a broader launch window and raised the possibility of delays. Speaking in a Power On podcast on October 1, Gurman said he expected the touchscreen MacBook announcement as early as October, potentially slipping to November. The laptops are reportedly being tested with macOS 27.2.

In September 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman included the touchscreen MacBooks in a list of products that will ship in late 2026/early 2027.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo both initially predicted a late 2026 debut, with an October announcement fitting Apple’s traditional MacBook Pro release schedule while also coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the MacBook Pro’s introduction. In January, South Korean blog Naver reported that Samsung had begun production on its new 8.6-generation OLED manufacturing line, which is expected to supply panels for the next-generation MacBook Pro, further supporting that timeframe. Gurman also reported in February that the redesigned MacBook Pro would arrive in the “back half” of 2026.

Gurman’s more recent reporting points to an October announcement and November availability. However, the launch was previously predicted for early 2027. In April, Gurman reported that supply-chain constraints were affecting development of the redesigned MacBook Pro and could push the release into early 2027. He subsequently reported in June that Apple had revised its chip roadmap, with the touchscreen MacBook Pro now expected to launch with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips instead of M6 Pro and M6 Max in an effort to keep the project on schedule.

Which MacBook models will get a touchscreen?

  • Current rumours suggest that Apple’s first touchscreen laptop will be a redesigned MacBook Pro with Pro and Max chips

Both Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo have reported that Apple is developing MacBook Pro models with OLED touchscreen displays as part of a major redesign. The feature is expected to debut on the high-end MacBook Pro models powered by Apple’s Pro and Max chips, making them the first Macs to support direct touch input.

Apple is expected to use the touchscreen as a key differentiator for its professional laptops, further separating the MacBook Pro from the more affordable MacBook Air and MacBook Neo.

There is also speculation that Apple could rebrand the flagship model as the MacBook Ultra. According to one report from a source said to be familiar with Apple’s plans, the company intends to expand its “Ultra” branding beyond the Mac Studio and Apple silicon chips. However, this claim has not been corroborated by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman or analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, so it should be treated with caution.

For now, the technology appears set to remain exclusive to the MacBook Pro lineup. Neither the MacBook Air nor the MacBook Neo is expected to gain touchscreen support in the near term. However, Kuo believes Apple could eventually expand the technology to other MacBook models if the touchscreen MacBook Pro proves successful.

The MacBook Air may be the next candidate for a touchscreen upgrade, but current forecasts suggest this is unlikely before 2028 or 2029. Some reports also indicate that the Air could adopt OLED display technology before then, albeit without touch functionality.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro Design

  • Lighter design expected
  • Punch hole for the FaceTime camera
MacBook Pro with Touch Bar
The last time Apple included touch with the MacBook was the TouchBar, which was a flop. But this time could it work out better for Apple?

Foundry

Apple’s touchscreen MacBook Pro is expected to have a substantially lighter design than current models, but it may not be significantly thinner. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has revised his earlier expectations for a slimmer body while maintaining that Apple has redesigned and consolidated internal components to reduce weight.

One of the most significant visual changes could be the removal of the display notch. Reports from display analysts and Bloomberg suggest Apple may replace the current notch with a hole-punch camera cutout, allowing for more usable screen space around the sensor. In early 2026, Gurman went a step further, claiming the new MacBook Pro could adopt an iPhone-like Dynamic Island interface built around the camera cutout.

The touchscreen MacBook Pro is also expected to retain its traditional laptop design, complete with a full keyboard and large trackpad, rather than becoming a hybrid tablet device.

Other rumoured design changes include:

  • A lighter chassis, although the latest reporting suggests it may not be thinner.
  • OLED display technology.
  • A hole-punch FaceTime camera replacing the notch.
  • Possible Dynamic Island-style functionality.
  • A reinforced hinge designed to minimise screen movement when the display is touched.

These changes would help distinguish the MacBook Pro from the MacBook Air and the entry-level MacBook Neo while giving Apple’s flagship laptop its most substantial design update in years.

Which chip will feature in the touchscreen MacBook?

  • M5 Pro and M5 Max

Early rumors suggested that Apple’s first touchscreen MacBook Pro would feature M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, but more recent reports indicate that Apple has changed its plans. The redesigned OLED models are now expected to launch with M5 Pro and M5 Max processors, with Apple potentially skipping the M6 Pro and M6 Max generation entirely.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in June 2026, Apple has revised its chip roadmap to accelerate development of the AI-focused M7 generation. The change could bring the M7 chips to market around six months earlier, with significantly improved on-device AI capabilities. The ongoing DRAM and NAND shortages may also have influenced Apple’s decision, although they are not thought to be the primary reason. Apple has already increased Mac and iPad prices in response to rising memory costs. Read more about Apple’s reported chip roadmap changes.

Separately, Apple is reportedly planning to launch the 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M6 chip.

There has also been speculation that Apple could introduce its own 5G modem to a future MacBook Pro, enabling cellular connectivity without Wi-Fi or an iPhone hotspot. However, there is little concrete evidence that cellular connectivity will be part of the touchscreen redesign.

Touchscreen MacBook Display

  • Tandem OLED display
  • Touchscreen interface

The display is expected to be the headline upgrade of Apple’s redesigned MacBook Pro. Multiple reports suggest Apple will replace the current Liquid Retina XDR (mini-LED) panel with a touchscreen OLED display, bringing MacBook Pro technology closer to the Ultra Retina XDR display used in the latest iPad Pro.

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is planning to introduce OLED touch panels in the MacBook Pro in late 2026 or early 2027. The new display is expected to be thinner, more power-efficient, and capable of delivering deeper blacks, higher contrast, richer colours, and improved HDR performance than today’s mini-LED screens.

Reports indicate that both the 14-inch and 16-inch models will use advanced tandem OLED technology, which combines two OLED layers to achieve higher brightness levels while maintaining excellent energy efficiency. Apple first introduced this technology with the M4 iPad Pro and is expected to bring a similar implementation to the MacBook Pro.

The touchscreen functionality will reportedly rely on on-cell touch technology, which integrates touch sensors directly into the display rather than adding a separate layer. This approach helps keep the panel thin while supporting multi-touch input.

If the rumours prove accurate, the move to a tandem OLED touchscreen would represent the biggest display upgrade in the MacBook Pro’s history and one of the most significant changes to the lineup in years.

iPad Pro 11 M4 homescreen
The iPad Pro has a tandem OLED display, the type of display that could make its way into the 2026 MacBook Pro.

Brady Snyder / Foundry

Touchscreen MacBook Interface

macOS 27 feature sheet
macOS 27 could have some hidden touchscreen features.

Foundry

Apple is not expected to turn macOS into iPadOS, but reports suggest macOS 27 could include subtle design changes to make the Mac easier to use with touch input.

Rather than replacing the traditional desktop experience, Apple is reportedly working on a touch-tuned interface that adapts depending on how the device is being used. When touch input is detected, interface elements such as menus, buttons, and controls may automatically enlarge to make them easier to tap. When using a mouse or trackpad, macOS would revert to its familiar point-and-click layout.

The touchscreen itself is expected to support standard gestures such as tapping, scrolling, and zooming, while still allowing users to switch between touch, trackpad, and mouse input.

Further clues appeared in the macOS 27.2 beta on October 5. MacRumors reported new code references to touch gestures in Safari, Photos, Notes and Quick Look. These could support a future touchscreen MacBook, but they could also relate to Sidecar, which allows an iPad to act as a Mac display.

More specific clues appeared in footage shared by itspdfu on October 14. The footage reportedly shows touch-oriented behavior in Safari in macOS 27.2 betas 3 and 4: tabs lift and enlarge while being rearranged, then return to their normal size when dropped into place. Pressing and holding a tab opens a contextual menu that omits the Ask Siri option available with a mouse or trackpad. These changes suggest Apple is preparing Safari for touch input.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro: Connectivity

  • 5G connectivity could finally come to the Mac
Apple C1X
The C1X is now available, but the C2 modem could arrive with the 2026 MacBook Pro.

Apple

Beyond the touchscreen display and redesigned chassis, one of the most intriguing rumours surrounding the next-generation MacBook Pro is built-in cellular connectivity.

Apple has spent the past several years developing its own modem technology, beginning with the C-series modem family. Reports suggest the company has explored bringing 5G connectivity to the MacBook lineup, allowing users to connect directly to mobile networks without relying on Wi-Fi or a smartphone hotspot.

In August 2025, Macworld reported that internal Apple code referenced a MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro chip and Apple’s C1 modem. This suggests Apple has experimented with cellular-equipped MacBooks, althogugh it does not establish that the upcoming touchscreen models will offer 5G.

The redesigned MacBook Pro could also benefit from Apple’s growing portfolio of wireless chips. The company’s N-series networking processors, which handle Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity, may eventually replace third-party components throughout the Mac lineup. An updated version of the chip could debut alongside the touchscreen MacBook Pro, improving power efficiency and tighter integration with Apple’s ecosystem.

Touchscreen MacBook Pro: Price expectations

Apple will likely offer similar configurations to the current MacBook Pro models, but it’s unclear how much of a premium a touchscreen OLED display will command. Apple upped the price of the iPad Pro by $200 when it got a tandem OLED, so it’s likely the touchscreen MacBook Pro will have a higher starting price.

Here are the prices for the current standard configurations of the M5 MacBook Pro, which saw prices increase between $300 and $500 in June 2026.

14-inch MacBook Pro

  • $1,999/£1,999: M5 with a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD, Thunderbolt 4
  • $2,499/£2,499: M5 Pro with a 15-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 1TB SSD, Thunderbolt 5
  • $4,099/£4,099: M5 Max with a 18-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 36GB unified memory, 2TB SSD, Thunderbolt 5

16-inch MacBook Pro

  • $2,999/£2,999: M5 Pro with a 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 1TB SSD, Thunderbolt 5
  • $4,399/£4,399: M5 Max with a 18-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 36GB unified memory, 2TB SSD, Thunderbolt 5

Should you buy the MacBook Pro now or wait for the M6 or Touchscreen MacBook?

✇Macworld
20 October 2026 at 14:50

Macworld

If you can postpone buying a MacBook Pro, we recommend waiting until Apple’s “Pro and Tell” media experience on October 28. Apple has confirmed that there will be gathering (not an Event as such), and the “Pro and Tell” name strongly suggests a MacBook Pro will be amount the new products.

Reports point to two distinct updates: an entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with an M6 chip and the existing design, and redesigned premium MacBook Pro with OLED touchscreen and M5 Pro or M5 Max processors. Their specifications, prices and availability remain unconfirmed. The redesigned MacBook Pro models, meanwhile, could introduce thinner and lighter bodies, OLED touchscreens, and M5 Pro and M5 Max chips – becoming Apple’s first

With Apple’s next event approaching, we’d recommend waiting unless you need a MacBook Pro immediately or find a particularly good discount on the current M5 models. Apple increased MacBook Pro prices by $300 to $500 in June 2026, so discounts and refurbished models remain worth considering.

The MacBook Pro is best suited to creative professionals, software developers, engineers and other power users who need sustained performance, a premium display, plenty of ports and high memory configurations. If your workload consists mainly of web browsing, office work, studying or light creative tasks, the MacBook Air is likely to offer better value at a much lower price. In this guide, we’ll explain whether you should buy now or wait, which MacBook Pro is right for you, the best times of year to buy, today’s best deals, and whether a refurbished model or MacBook Air might be a better choice.

Should you buy a MacBook Pro now?

Wait until Apple’s October 28 experience and associated announcements if your current laptop can meet your needs until then. You’ll be able to assess any new models before committing to a purchase. Buying an existing model can still make sense if you need a replacement immediately or find a substantial discount.

Buy a MacBook Pro now if:

  • You’re upgrading from an Intel Mac: Apple is ending support for Intel Macs, so if you haven’t yet switched to Apple Silicon, now is a good time to do so. As Intel Macs reach the end of support, they’ll stop receiving security updates, leaving them vulnerable to newly discovered security flaws.
  • You need a new laptop: If your current Mac is broken, unreliable or slowing you down, there’s little reason to wait.
  • You edit video or create content: Whether you’re editing 4K video, working in Photoshop or Lightroom, producing music or creating 3D graphics, the MacBook Pro delivers the sustained performance creative professionals need.
  • You’re a software developer, engineer or AI professional: Compiling code, running virtual machines, working with AI models or processing large datasets is much faster on the MacBook Pro, particularly the M5 Pro and M5 Max models.
  • You need sustained performance: Unlike the fanless MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro uses active cooling to maintain peak performance during long exports, renders and other demanding workloads.
  • You need professional features: The MacBook Pro offers a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, HDMI, an SDXC card slot, MagSafe charging and higher memory and storage options than the MacBook Air.
  • You find an excellent deal: A discounted current model may be worthwhile if it meets your needs. Compare the saving against the benefits of waiting for Apple’s announcements, and don’t assume prices will fall further.

When shouldn’t you buy a MacBook Pro?

The MacBook Pro is an excellent laptop, but it isn’t the right choice for everyone. If you don’t need its extra performance or professional features, you’ll save money – and probably be just as happy – with a MacBook Air. There are also a few situations where it’s worth waiting rather than buying today.

Don’t buy a MacBook Pro now if:

  • You want the M6 model: Wait to see whether Apple introduces the expected entry-level 14-inch update. Don’t assume its newer chip will make it more powerful than the premium Pro and Max configurations.
  • You’re waiting for the redesign: Hold off until Apple’s announcements. The rumored OLED touchscreen models could offer a more substantial change than a processor upgrade.
  • You want the next-generation chips: The entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro is expected to gain the M6 chip on October 27, bringing improvements in CPU, GPU, and AI performance.
  • You’re looking for the best price: With new MacBook Pro models reportedly arriving soon, discounts on the existing M5 generation could become more attractive. Black Friday may bring further savings.
  • You mainly use your laptop for everyday tasks: If your workload consists of web browsing, Microsoft Office, streaming, email, video calls or light photo editing, a MacBook Air offers excellent performance for much less money.
  • You’re a student with basic computing needs: If your coursework mainly involves writing essays, researching online or creating presentations, a MacBook Air is likely to be the better value.
  • Portability is your priority: The MacBook Air is thinner, lighter and completely silent thanks to its fanless design.
  • You’re on a budget: The MacBook Air delivers outstanding performance for most users while costing significantly less than the MacBook Pro.

For most people, the MacBook Air is the better buy. The MacBook Pro only comes into its own if you regularly run demanding professional workloads that benefit from its active cooling, more powerful chips, superior display, additional ports and higher memory options.

Should I buy a MacBook Pro: At a glance

Your situationRecommendation
Need a laptop nowBuy now – The M5 models are excellent
Still using IntelUpgrade, but wait until Apple’s October 28 announcements
Using an M1, M2 or M3 MacBook Pro Wait – see what the M6 offers
On an M4 Pro or M4 Max MacBook ProKeep your Mac – little reason to upgrade yet
Want OLED and a touchscreenWait for the redesigned M5 Pro/Max models
Want the lowest priceLook for M5 clearance deals and Black Friday discounts

MacBook Pro: Current line up

If you can wait, compare Apple’s announcements around October 28 with the models below before choosing. Check the actual processor configuration, display, memory, storage and price against your workload, rather than choosing solely by chip-generation number.

We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 16GB, 1TB, 2025)

Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5, 16GB, 1TB, 2025)

The MacBook Pro (M5, 14-inch) was introduced in October 2025, this is the entry-level MacBook Pro. It features a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, 16GB of unified memory, 1TB of storage, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and up to 24 hours of battery life.

We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026)

Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 2026)

The MacBook Pro (M5 Pro, 14-inch and 16-inch) was launched in March 2026. The M5 Pro models introduced Apple’s new Fusion Architecture, combining two 3nm dies into a single system-on-a-chip. They start with 1TB of storage, feature Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, and offer up to 24 hours of battery life on the 16-inch model.

We recommend: Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max, 2026)

Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (M5 Max, 2026)

The MacBook Pro (M5 Max, 14-inch and 16-inch) was also introduced in March 2026, these are Apple’s fastest laptops, designed for demanding professional workflows. They start with 36GB of unified memory and 2TB of storage, support up to 128GB of memory, and deliver up to four times the AI performance of the previous generation.

What’s the best MacBook Pro price right now?

Best MacBook Pro Deals

Get a MacBook Pro for less.


Foundry

Apple rarely discounts Macs itself. In fact, in June 2026, Apple increased MacBook Pro prices by $300 to $500, making it more important than ever to shop around for a deal.

The price rise came in the middle of Amazon’s Prime Day sale, when the M5 MacBook Pro briefly hit record-low prices. Discounts brought the entry-level model down to $1,499/£1,529, making it one of the best MacBook Pro deals we’ve ever tracked. Prices that low are unlikely to return until a major sales event such as Prime Day or Black Friday.

For the latest prices across all configurations, see our live MacBook Pro deals table below.

Best U.S MacBook Pro deals

These are the best deals we saw during Prime Day in October 2026 and the lowest price we saw prior to Apple increasing prices.

MacBook ProDealNew MSRPOld MSRPLowest
14-inch, M5, 1TB, 16GB$1,839 Get the deal at Amazon $160 off$1,999$1,699$1,499 
14-inch, M5, 1TB, 24GB$2,039 Get the deal at Amazon $160 off$2,199$1,899$1,699
14-inch, M5 Pro, 1TB$2,345 Get the deal at Amazon $155 off$2,499$2,199$1,983.94
14-inch, M5 Max, 2TB$3,499 Get the deal at Amazon $600 off$4,099$3,599$3,299.99
16-inch, M5 Pro, 1TB$2,749 Get the deal at Amazon $250 off$2,999$2,699$2,449
16-inch, M5 Max, 2TB$3,899 Get the deal at Amazon $500 off$4,399$3,899$3,649

Best U.K. MacBook Pro deals

MacBook ProDealNew RRPOld RRPLowest
14-inch, M5, 1TBOut of stock£1,999£1,699£1,528.97
14-inch, M5 Pro, 1TB, 24GB£2,249.97 Get the deal at Amazon £249 off£2,499£2,199£1,978.97
14-inch, M5 Max, 2TB£3,799 Get the deal at Amazon £300 off£4,099£3,599£3,238.97
16-inch, M5 Pro, 1TB£2,699.97 Get the deal at Amazon £299 off£2,999£2,699£2,428.97
16-inch, M5 Max, 2TB£4,399 at Amazon£4,399£3,899£3,508.97


Also see our Best MacBook Pro deals for more.

When is the best time to buy a MacBook Pro?

Black Friday MacBook deals

Foundry

If you’re looking for the lowest price on a MacBook Pro, the best times to buy are during major sales events such as Amazon Prime Day in June/July or October and Black Friday.

Black Friday is typically the strongest shopping period for MacBook Pro deals, although the lowest prices are often reserved for older or clearance models, and popular configurations can sell out quickly.

Another time to look for deals is shortly after Apple launches a new model, as retailers often discount the previous generation to clear remaining stock, making it possible to save hundreds if you don’t need the latest chip.

If you’re a student, you can save all year. Students, teachers, and education staff can typically save $100 to $200 on a new MacBook Pro through Apple’s Education Store. However, the best time to buy is usually during Apple’s annual Back to School promotion in the summer, when qualifying customers can often claim a free pair of AirPods or another bonus gift alongside the education discount. See How to use Apple’s Education Store to get a bargain.

TimingWhy it’s a good timeTypical saving
Amazon Prime Day (June/July/October)Deep discounts from Amazon.$150 – $800+ off MSRP
Black Friday / Cyber Monday (November/December)The biggest sales event of the year for electronics.$200 – $500+ off MSRP
After a New Model Launch (March/October)Retailers discount the previous generation to clear inventory.Varies; often $200–$400 off
Apple Refurbished Store (Year-Round)“Like-new” condition with full warranty; pre-hike prices.15%–30% off original MSRP
Apple Education Store (Year-Round)Direct discount for students and educators.$100 – $200 off MSRP

Is buying a refurbished MacBook Pro a good idea?

Refurbished

Foundry

Buying a refurbished MacBook Pro can be a great way to save money – particularly if you buy directly from Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store.

As of July 2026, buying refurbished makes more sense than ever because Apple has continued to sell refurbished Macs at pre-price-hike prices, allowing buyers to avoid the $300 to $500 increases Apple introduced on new MacBook Pro models in June.

Apple Certified Refurbished Macs are typically around 15% cheaper than brand-new models and come with the same one-year warranty, 90 days of complimentary technical support, and the option to purchase AppleCare+. Every Mac undergoes extensive testing, is cleaned and inspected, and receives genuine Apple replacement parts where necessary.

The main downside is availability. Stock changes daily, so you may need to wait for the exact model, storage capacity, memory configuration, or colour you want. Newer MacBook Pro models also usually don’t appear in the refurbished store until several months after launch.

Third-party retailers, including Amazon, also sell refurbished Macs, but quality standards vary considerably. We generally recommend avoiding Macs that are more than five years old, as they may receive fewer years of macOS and security updates. In some cases, retailers also offer larger discounts on new, previous-generation MacBook Pro models during major sales events, so it’s always worth comparing prices before you buy.

For most buyers, Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store remains the safest and best-value way to buy a refurbished MacBook Pro.

Best refurbished MacBook Pro deal right now

Apple is selling the M5 MacBook Pro on its Certified Refurbished store in the U.S. for $300 off the full price.

Get the MacBook Pro on Apple’s Refurbished Store.

Apple is selling the M5 MacBook Pro on its Certified Refurbished store in the U.K. You can get up to £450 off the M5 Pro MacBook Pro and £750 off a 16-inch MacBook Pro with M5 Max chip.

Get the MacBook Pro on Apple’s Refurbished Store.

Which MacBook Pro to choose

Before choosing a MacBook Pro, bear in mind that Apple is reportedly preparing new models for October 27. The entry-level MacBook Pro is expected to gain the M6 processor, while the higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max models could receive an OLED touchscreen redesign. Unless you need a laptop immediately, we’d recommend waiting to compare the new models before buying.

Choose the M5 MacBook Pro if you want Pro features such as the better display, extra ports and active cooling, but don’t need the power of the M5 Pro or M5 Max.

Choose the M5 Pro MacBook Pro if you’re a professional who regularly edits 4K video, compiles large software projects, works with RAW photos, produces music or runs multiple demanding applications at once. For most creative professionals and developers, the M5 Pro offers the best balance of performance and price.

Choose the M5 Max MacBook Pro if your work pushes a laptop to its limits. The M5 Max is designed for users editing multiple streams of 8K video, creating complex 3D animations, running large AI or machine learning workloads, or handling visual effects and other GPU-intensive tasks. Unless you regularly perform these types of work, the M5 Pro is likely to offer better value.

What about the MacBook Air?

Macbook Air Swappie

The MacBook Air is a good alternative at a lower price.


Stephan Wiesend

If you’re considering a MacBook Pro, it’s also worth looking at the MacBook Air. Apple updated the Air in March 2026, and with a starting price of $1,299/£1,299 (the price increased by $200/£200 in June 2026), it’s significantly cheaper than the MacBook Pro.

The MacBook Air is a good choice if you:

  • Mainly browse the web, use Microsoft Office or stream media.
  • Are a student or home user with light computing needs.
  • Value portability and a silent, fanless design.
  • Want the best value MacBook.

However, the lower price comes with a few compromises. Compared to the MacBook Pro, the Air offers lower sustained performance, a less advanced display, fewer ports, and lower memory and storage limits.

Choose the MacBook Pro if you need:

  • Sustained performance for video editing, coding, 3D rendering or AI workloads.
  • A Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion and HDR.
  • More connectivity, including HDMI, an SDXC card slot and additional Thunderbolt ports.
  • Higher-end M5 Pro or M5 Max chips, with up to 128GB of unified memory.

For most everyday users, the MacBook Air is the better value. But if your work regularly pushes your laptop to its limits, the MacBook Pro is well worth the extra investment.

Do you need to upgrade your current Mac?

m5 chip family

Apple

Whether you need to upgrade depends on three things: how old your Mac is, whether Apple still supports it, and whether it can keep up with the apps and features you use every day.

If you have an Intel Mac, it’s time to upgrade

With macOS 27 Golden Gate, Apple has ended support for Intel Macs. While Apple is expected to continue providing security updates for the small number of Intel Macs that support macOS 26 Tahoe, that support is likely to last only another year or two.

The only Intel Macs that can run macOS Tahoe are:

  • 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019)
  • 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020, four Thunderbolt ports)
  • 27-inch iMac (2020)
  • Mac Pro (2019)

If your Mac isn’t on this list, it may no longer receive the latest macOS updates and will eventually stop receiving security updates. For more advice, read How long Macs and MacBooks last: Lifespan, support and when to upgrade.

If you’re still using an Intel Mac, we recommend upgrading as soon as your budget allows. Moving from Intel to Apple Silicon is one of the biggest upgrades Apple has ever offered. You’ll benefit from dramatically faster performance, much longer battery life, quieter operation, Apple Intelligence support, and many more years of macOS compatibility. Read our guides to macOS Tahoe and macOS Golden Gate to see what you’ll gain by upgrading.

Which are the best retailers to buy a MacBook from?

Aside from Apple (View the MacBook Pro in the Apple Store and View the MacBook Pro in the Apple Store U.K). There are a number of third-party resellers that frequently discount the MacBook Pro.

When shopping at a reseller our advice is to always verify:

  • Processor generation
  • RAM amount
  • SSD size
  • Whether the model is Intel or Apple Silicon

Don’t make the mistake of paying for a previous generation Mac without comparing it to the specs of the current model.

Best for Lowest Prices

Best for U.K. Buyers

MacVoices #26276: Live! – Mac mini M5 Pro vs. Mac Studio, Googlebook ’s App Problems, Meta’s Muse

✇MacVoices
By: Chuck
12 October 2026 at 21:16
The panel compares the M5 Pro Mac mini and Mac Studio, examining performance, pricing, upgrades, and video rendering capabilities. They also discuss Android app compatibility problems on Google’s new computers, Meta’s controversial Muse AI collecting personal relationship information, Facebook’s continuing relevance for content creators, and ChatGPT’s new virtual clothing try-on capabilities. 

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MacVoices #26271: Live! – More Streaming Price Hikes, CoPilot Desperately Rebrands

✇MacVoices
By: Chuck
5 October 2026 at 19:02
It is happening again: Disney+ and Hulu are raising prices on their streaming services prices, inspiring the panel to discuss  strategies for managing streaming costs, and free content alternatives. The conversation then turns to Microsoft dropping Copilot+ branding from new Surface PCs, Copilot’s lacking enterprise presence, reports of human review of CoPilot user photos, and broader concerns about how Microsoft and Meta approach privacy.

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MacVoices #26267: Cloud Storage Isn’t Backup and Evaluating Googlebooks

✇MacVoices
By: Chuck
30 September 2026 at 00:01
The panel looks at macOS 27 ending Time Capsule backup support, then debates Google’s new Android-based laptops and its attempt to build a tighter ecosystem. Other topics include Chrome’s retro-style bookmark launchpad and GM’s geolocation privacy settlement before a deep dive into cloud storage, AWS data loss, redundancy, service agreements, and why cloud storage is […]

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Meta AI for Mac and Muse

✇Michael Tsai
By: Michael Tsai
28 September 2026 at 19:51

Zac Hall:

The new Meta AI desktop app is version 1.0 beta at launch and weighs just 16MB once installed.

Based on initial inspection, it runs natively on Apple silicon Macs with macOS 15 or later, using an AppKit and SwiftUI shell with WebKit for richer chat content. In other words, this is not an Electron app or a repackaged iPad release.

It includes Mac-specific hooks, making the desktop experience more robust than the Meta AI mobile app.

Karissa Bell:

The Mac app brings a few new capabilities compared with Meta AI’s existing website and mobile app. For example, it enables users to share part of their screen so the assistant can “see” what they’re working on and provide more specific answers.

Juli Clover:

The app is primarily meant for businesses and content creators, and it integrates with Facebook and Instagram. It incorporates analytics tools so it can answer questions about performance, and connects with Google Workspace for document access. Google Workspace access requires a professional Facebook or Instagram account.

John Gruber:

Passes the Settings window sniff test too — it actually has a Settings window.

[…]

The Mac app is not available in the App Store. You need to download it directly from Meta’s web page, using the “Download for Mac (Beta)” link. The ChatGPT and Claude Mac apps aren’t in the Mac App Store either — they do too many things outside the App Store’s mandatory sandbox (and probably use APIs require that special entitlements in the App Store too).

Sarah Perez:

Meta’s new AI assistant app, Muse, is now available on Mac.

On the Mac, Muse can interact with your files, messages, calendar, notes, and mail, all within their native applications.

Terrence O’Brien:

Jason Aten, a contributing editor at Inc Magazine, posted on Threads screenshots of an interaction he had with Muse in which the assistant asks him some questions about a conversation he was having in Messages.

The problem is that Aten says he didn’t give Muse access to his messages. When asked how it knew about the contents of his messages, Muse replied, “I saw the notification previews, not your message history. I haven’t been reading your texts.” Aten continued to push, asking how Muse was receiving message previews, it didn’t have a good answer.

M.G. Siegler:

The number one response I’ve gotten to my thoughts on Meta’s Muse personal assistant agent is some variation of “I will never trust Meta with my data.” But the number two response is arguably more interesting (and related): “Why didn’t Google build this?”

Pieter Arntz:

Mac security researcher Patrick Wardle says it’s trivial to turn Muse into “the ultimate backdoor.”

[…]

According to Ars Technica, Wardle found that a locally running application or terminal command could alter an undocumented Muse configuration setting that controls the server used for dictation transcription. By redirecting dictation traffic to an attacker-controlled server, an attacker could capture voice prompts and obtain the authentication token for the victim’s Muse account.

John Gruber:

Four days later and Muse still holds the #1 spot in the U.S. iOS App Store.

See also: Joanna Stern.

Alexandr Wang (Watts Martin, John Gruber):

Here’s the best part: we have no idea what people will want. The world until now has been shaped by the small number of fanatics who have somehow found a way to make their wants real. But we’ve never seen humanity with every single person’s agency fully switched on. Eight billion people who just need to write their dream down in order to get started making it happen.

So we built Muse to help people build the world they want.

Damien P. Williams:

So uhhhhhh… Apparently meta’s muse “AI” is just straight up doxxing people to strangers on FB marketplace???

Via Mike Masnick:

Almost all of Meta’s PR about Muse was about how careful they had been to set it up not to do things like this, how they delayed the launch by months to carefully design it so it could be trusted. And then…

Previously:

Golden Gate and the Notch

✇Michael Tsai
By: Michael Tsai
25 September 2026 at 20:23

Jason Snell:

Apple has added some light menu-bar management, specifically to deal with items that overflow the notch on some MacBook models. I’m glad that it’s taken this tentative step, though I wish it were more—it’s okay, Apple, you can sherlock all those menu-bar-management utilities out there—and of course, it should’ve happened back when the notch first appeared five years ago.

Previously:

Shop Different

✇Michael Tsai
By: Michael Tsai
21 September 2026 at 21:46

HarperCollins (Amazon):

When Steve Jobs hired Ron Johnson to create the Apple Store in 2000, conventional wisdom said that the internet would put stores out of business. By the time he left Apple in 2011, Johnson and his team had created the most respected and profitable retail stores in the world. And even then, skeptics were still predicting the death of physical retail.

In Shop Different, Johnson reveals how it happened: how he earned Jobs’s trust, how they developed a vision for a store that would win not by selling but by serving, and how he convinced Jobs that the store’s service philosophy should be rooted in something as intangible as love. Johnson then gives readers a new look at Apple’s ascent to the most valuable company in the world; offers an inspiring vision for a future in which retailers win on connection, service, and experience; and shares an honest look at what leads to success—and what can follow.

I enjoyed this interview that Jeff Benjamin and Fernando Silva did with Ron Johnson.

Previously:

Update (2026-09-25): Ron Johnson:

I told Steve, we’re going to get these people who are really good at technology, but they love people and are [good at conversation]. […] And he said, they don’t exist. Everyone who knows technology is kind of geeky. Maybe you call it the geek bar. […] But then I’d seen Apple’s genius campaign, and I felt like if we called a Genius Bar, People would come out of the woodwork wanting that job. Because who wouldn’t want to be the smartest Apple person in every city?

[…]

I said, you know, if the Mac’s a success, it’ll be the center of your digital life. And he came into the executive team meeting the next Monday, and I’m not saying it was solely that conversation, he probably had a lot of conversations about similar things, but he got all excited and stood at the whiteboard and drew a picture.

[…]

After I heard that, that night I was thinking about it, I woke up and I thought, well, if Steve’s going to market the Mac as the digital hub, our store’s [need to do that]. Our store was like any retail store, it was is built around products. We had portables and desktops.

I told Steve, well, maybe we ought to organize a store on movies and music and photos and the things you do.

Received — 20 October 2026 ⏭

Apple Confirms The Pro And Tell Special Event For October 28

✇The Mac Observer
By: Akshay Kumar
19 October 2026 at 17:27

Apple is preparing to host its second media gathering of the month. Members of the press recently received invites for a special Apple event scheduled for Wednesday, October 28 at 10 a.m. PT. Greg Joswiak teased the announcement on social media using the clever tagline Pro and tell. This upcoming showcase in Los Angeles will […]

The post Apple Confirms The Pro And Tell Special Event For October 28 appeared first on The Mac Observer.

Received — 17 October 2026 ⏭
Received — 17 September 2026 ⏭
Received — 16 September 2026 ⏭

Lenovo Googlebook 15: What the 120Hz OLED and Core Ultra 5 325 Mean for Users

✇IGeeKphone China
By: Brady Cotton
16 September 2026 at 03:20

Lenovo’s upcoming Lenovo Googlebook 15 is shaping up to be a very different kind of Google-powered laptop. Leaked specifications point to a 15.3-inch 120Hz OLED touchscreen, Intel’s Core Ultra 5 325 processor, up to 32GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 70Wh battery. The combination suggests that Lenovo is targeting users who want more than the basic hardware traditionally associated with Chromebooks.

The laptop is expected to become one of the first devices built around Google’s new Googlebook Panther Lake processor platform. Lenovo has not yet confirmed the final retail price or complete launch details, so the specifications below should still be treated as leaked information until the company makes an official announcement.

Lenovo Googlebook 15 specifications

The reported configuration puts the Googlebook 15 firmly in the premium laptop category.

  • Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 325
  • Graphics: Integrated Intel Xe3 graphics
  • Memory: 16GB / 32GB LPDDR5X
  • Storage: 256GB / 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.3-inch OLED touchscreen
  • Resolution: 2880 × 1800
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Brightness: Up to 500 nits
  • Color coverage: 100% DCI-P3
  • Battery: 70Wh
  • Claimed battery life: Up to 11 hours
  • Wireless: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
  • Ports: 2 × Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, HDMI 2.0 and 3.5mm audio
  • Webcam: 5MP RGB with dual microphones
  • Audio: Four speakers with Dolby Atmos
  • Weight: Approximately 1.29kg
  • Thickness: Approximately 15.9mm

A 120Hz OLED display is the biggest highlight

The Googlebook 15 laptop lineup reportedly uses a 15.3-inch OLED touchscreen with a 2880 × 1800 resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio.

The 120Hz refresh rate is particularly notable. Instead of positioning the machine as an inexpensive web-focused notebook, Lenovo appears to be giving it a display specification normally associated with more expensive Windows laptops.

The panel is also reported to reach 500 nits and cover 100% of the DCI-P3 color space. That combination should make the Googlebook 15 more appealing for photo and video viewing, creative work and general multimedia use.

For everyday productivity, the 16:10 format also provides more vertical workspace than a traditional 16:9 laptop display.

Core Ultra 5 325 and up to 32GB RAM

Performance is another area where the Googlebook 15 moves beyond the usual entry-level Chromebook formula.

The leaked configuration points to Intel’s Core Ultra 5 325 processor, paired with integrated graphics. Buyers are reportedly expected to have a choice between 16GB and 32GB of LPDDR5X memory.

Storage options are said to include 256GB and 512GB SSD configurations.

The higher 32GB memory option could be particularly useful if Googlebook is intended to handle heavier multitasking, Android applications and AI-assisted workloads rather than simply running browser-based tasks.

Googlebook 15 brings a different keyboard and design

Lenovo is reportedly giving the laptop several visual and functional details designed specifically for the Googlebook platform.

One of the most unusual additions is a dedicated Google “G” key positioned between the Fn and Alt keys. Its final software function has not been fully explained, but the key could become an important shortcut for Google services or AI features.

The lid is also expected to feature a multicolor LED strip known as Glowbar. Rather than being purely decorative, the lighting system can reportedly provide visual information related to power and charging status.

The laptop is said to use a large haptic touchpad measuring approximately 150 × 95mm, while the keyboard is backlit.

Security and video-call features

The Googlebook 15 also appears to take security and communication more seriously than a basic Chromebook.

The power button is reportedly integrated with a fingerprint reader, while the laptop is expected to support Google’s facial authentication system.

For video calls, Lenovo is reportedly using a 5MP RGB webcam with dual microphones. A physical privacy shutter is also included, allowing users to cover the camera when it is not in use.

Audio is handled by four speakers with Dolby Atmos support.

Plenty of ports for a thin 15-inch laptop

Despite its relatively slim chassis, the reported port selection is fairly comprehensive.

The laptop is expected to have two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A port, HDMI 2.0 and a 3.5mm headphone and microphone combo jack.

Wireless connectivity reportedly includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

This combination makes the Googlebook 15 more flexible for users who connect external displays, storage devices and other accessories.

70Wh battery and lightweight design

The reported 70Wh battery is another interesting part of the specification.

Lenovo is said to target up to 11 hours of battery life under its own testing conditions. That figure should not be interpreted as guaranteed real-world runtime, since display brightness, refresh rate, applications, wireless connections and workload can all affect battery performance.

More impressive is the reported weight. Despite its 15.3-inch display, the laptop is expected to weigh around 1.29kg and measure approximately 15.9mm thick.

That would make the Googlebook 15 relatively portable for a large-screen notebook.

Why the Googlebook 15 matters

The most interesting part of the Googlebook 15 is not any single specification. It is the overall hardware combination.

A 120Hz OLED touchscreen , Core Ultra 5 processor, up to 32GB of RAM, Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7 and a 70Wh battery place the machine well above the basic hardware profile that consumers traditionally associate with Chromebooks.

The Googlebook platform also appears designed around Google’s broader ecosystem, including Gemini AI features and closer Android integration.

That means Lenovo’s new laptop could be aimed at users who want the simplicity of Google’s software environment without accepting entry-level laptop hardware.

This is also why the Googlebook 15 may be more interesting than a conventional Chromebook upgrade. Its value will ultimately depend on how well Googlebook OS takes advantage of the more powerful hardware.

Lenovo Googlebook 15 release date and price

Lenovo has not yet announced a final retail price for the Googlebook 15.

The laptop is expected to arrive this autumn, with Googlebook hardware expected to receive more attention as Google reveals additional details about the platform.

For now, the leaked specifications suggest that Lenovo is preparing a premium large-screen Googlebook rather than another budget-focused Chromebook.

The combination of a 120Hz OLED display, Intel Core Ultra 5 325, up to 32GB of RAM, modern connectivity and Google-focused software could make the Lenovo Googlebook 15 one of the more interesting new laptops in the emerging Googlebook category.

Until Lenovo officially confirms the specifications, however, pricing, availability and final software features should be considered unconfirmed.

The post Lenovo Googlebook 15: What the 120Hz OLED and Core Ultra 5 325 Mean for Users appeared first on IGeeKphone China Phone, Tablet PC, VR, RC Drone News, Reviews.

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