If you’re planning to buy a new MacBook Pro, you might want to hold off for another week. Apple has confirmed its next product event, called “Pro and Tell”, for October 28, 2026, and we expect some interesting MacBook announcements.
According to Reuters, Apple will host the event in Los Angeles, with reports suggesting that the company could finally introduce its first touchscreen MacBook Pro. But does that mean you should immediately buy the newest model when it arrives? Not necessarily.
What’s coming to the MacBook Pro?
Based on the latest MacRumors report, Apple is expected to introduce two quite different MacBook Pro upgrades. The first is an updated 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by the M6 chip. This model is expected to retain the existing design, with most of the improvements of the newer processor.
The second is a redesigned MacBook Pro with an OLED touchscreen, thinner and lighter construction, and potentially an iPhone-like Dynamic Island that replaces the traditional display notch.
These premium models are rumored to continue to use M5 Pro and M5 Max processors instead of newer M6 Pro or M6 Max chips. Of course, none of these specs have been officially confirmed by Apple, so we’ll have to see what’s actually announced.
Do we really need a touchscreen MacBook Pro?
One of the biggest talking points is obviously the touchscreen. Personally, I don’t think a touchscreen is necessary on a laptop. When working on a computer, I generally prefer to use a keyboard and mouse instead of constantly reaching for the screen.
Sure, touchscreen functionality could be handy for various creative applications, scrolling through content or interacting with specific software. But is it something that will dramatically improve my productivity? I don’t think so.
The rumored OLED display, on the other hand, is certainly more interesting. Better contrast, deeper blacks, and potentially improved energy efficiency are all welcome improvements, especially for professionals working with visual content. However, OLED panels and touchscreen technology could also make the redesigned MacBook Pro more expensive. And that brings us to the more important question: value for money.
Australian MacBook Pro prices are already relatively high
Looking at Apple Australia’s current prices, the 14-inch MacBook Pro starts at A$3,199 with the M5 chip. If you want an M5 Pro model, you’re looking at A$3,999, while the M5 Max configuration starts at A$6,399.
These are not exactly small purchases. For someone who does daily office work, browsing, video conferencing and occasional photo editing, I would seriously question whether thousands more on the latest MacBook Pro is worth it. Even for professionals, the decision should ultimately depend on the applications they use and whether the additional processing power would really improve their workflow.
Should you wait or buy the current MacBook Pro?
My recommendation depends on your situation.
If your current laptop is working perfectly and you are planning to upgrade, I would definitely wait until October 28th. We’re only days away from the announcement, so there’s little reason to rush. You can then compare the new models, see their current Australian prices, and decide if the improvements justify the cost.
There’s another potential benefit to waiting: existing M5 MacBook Pro models can get discounts from retailers when the new versions arrive. And frankly, buying a slightly older MacBook Pro at a significant discount might be a smarter purchase than paying full price for the latest model.
On the other hand, if your laptop has stopped working and you urgently need a replacement for work, there is nothing wrong with buying an existing model now. Finally, I wouldn’t buy a new MacBook Pro simply because it has the latest processor or a shiny touchscreen. I’d rather spend my money on features and performance improvements that actually matter.
With Apple’s announcement just around the corner, waiting another week seems like the wisest decision for anyone who isn’t in a hurry.