Apple’s 2026 M5 MacBook Pro with OLED display could bring the Dynamic Island from iPhone to Mac for the first time, hinting at a major redesign. Here’s what to expect.
Apple’s OLED Transition Moves to MacBook Pro, As Samsung Display Books First Order
Apple’s long-anticipated transition to OLED displays in its Mac lineup is finally materializing. According to a report from DigiTimes, Apple has tapped Samsung Display as the primary supplier for its first OLED MacBook Pro, slated for release in 2026.
This marks a significant shift in display technology for Apple notebooks, one that may also usher in a fresh hardware redesign.
Dynamic Island May Replace the Notch on MacBook Pro
The most exciting implication of the OLED shift is the potential arrival of the Dynamic Island on the MacBook Pro.
While Apple hasn’t confirmed this, the use of flexible OLED panels could allow for more intricate cutout designs, meaning the infamous notch could finally disappear from MacBooks. This would not only streamline the display experience but also bring a familiar, dynamic UI element from iPhone to macOS. With macOS Tahoe 26 already bringing in support for Live Activities from your iPhone alongside an entire iPhone app, a Dynamic Island could make sense.
Apple Strengthens Ties With Samsung Display
Samsung’s role as the primary OLED supplier further highlights the company’s display leadership. By leveraging 6th-generation OLED lines, Samsung is expected to begin mass production of these panels ahead of the 2026 launch. The new displays will likely improve contrast, enable thinner designs, and boost energy efficiency. All traits consistent with OLED advantages over LCD.
Related: Apple Plans Ultra Retina XDR Display for Future iPhones with Tandem OLED
BOE Eyes iPad OLED Supply Chain
While Samsung secures the MacBook OLED deal, BOE, which is a major Chinese display manufacturer, is targeting Apple’s iPad lineup. BOE is investing in 8.6-generation OLED production using LTPO technology, a panel type already used in iPad Pros. Apple is reportedly working closely with BOE to meet quality standards, potentially diversifying its display supply chain beyond Korean giants Samsung and LG.
Key takeaways from the BOE story:
- BOE could provide OLED panels for future iPad Pro models.
- The iPad Air and mini are unlikely to adopt LTPO-based OLED soon.
- Greater supplier diversity may help Apple lower costs and reduce reliance on Korea’s OLED market.
MacBook Pro Redesign Timeline
The M5 MacBook Pro is expected to debut before the OLED model, likely in late 2025 or early 2026. The OLED-equipped MacBook Pro with Dynamic Island may arrive later in 2026, potentially alongside a broader MacBook design refresh. If true, this would mark the first major visual redesign since the notch was introduced in 2021.
Suggested: Spotted: New MacBook with iPhone A18 Pro Chip in Apple Code!
What This Means for Mac Users
For MacBook users, the move to OLED and the possible introduction of the Dynamic Island represent more than just cosmetic upgrades. OLED could improve battery life, enable thinner devices, and bring iPhone-style visual polish to the MacBook experience.
As OLED production ramps up and Apple prepares to reveal more in 2026, this could be the most significant visual and technological leap for the MacBook Pro in years.
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