Will macOS 16 Reveal the Future of Touchscreen Macs?

macOS 16 and the Future of Touchscreen Macs

With WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) 2025 just around the corner, Apple is set to unveil major software updates, including iOS 19 and macOS 16. While much of the attention has been on iPhone changes, macOS 16 could be a significant indicator of whether touchscreen Macs are in Apple's future plans.

The History of Touch on Macs

• 2007: Apple introduced multitouch with the iPhone.
• 2010: The iPad followed, solidifying touch as a core part of Apple's mobile ecosystem.
• Years of Denial: Despite regular denials from Apple executives, rumors and hints have persisted that touchscreen Macs could be on the horizon.

The 2026 MacBook Pro

• Expected Features:
  • Thinner and lighter design
  • OLED display
  • M6 chip line
  • Possibly a C1 or C2 modem
  • Touch Support: Strong rumors suggest that touch could be a key feature.

macOS 16: A Turning Point

• Big Sur Precedent:

  • macOS Big Sur's redesign in 2020 sparked excitement about touchscreen Macs.
  • Apple downplayed the significance of minor design tweaks at the time.

• macOS 16 Expectations:

  • If touchscreen Macs are coming, macOS 16 will likely show significant touch-friendly changes.
  • If no such changes are evident, it may signal that touchscreen Macs are not in Apple's near-term plans.

Conclusion

• June 2025 WWDC: Will either confirm or dispel hopes for touchscreen Macs.
• Clarity Ahead: Whether macOS 16 hints at touch or not, the future of touchscreen Macs should become much clearer by then.