Apple launches touchscreen MacBook Pro starting at $2,899

Apple has launched a new MacBook Pro featuring a touchscreen, ending years of resisting the technology. The base model starts at $2,899.

Device Details

The new laptop comes in 14-inch and 16-inch screen sizes with a PROLED XDR Display. Buyers can choose between M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. The device supports up to 128GB of unified memory and up to 16TB of storage. The display offers 2000 nits peak HDR and SDR brightness along with a 10,000,000 to 1 contrast ratio. The 14-inch version starts at $2,899, while the 16-inch model starts at $3,399. Apple added a specialized hinge to stabilize the screen during touch use and to steady the camera during video calls. The screen also features a Dynamic Island-style cutout instead of the traditional notch.

Leadership

This release marks two major product launches for new CEO John Turnus. He previously introduced the company's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, in September. The launch follows yesterday's unveiling of a standard MacBook Pro with the M6 chip starting at $1,999.

Context

Apple previously experimented with touch technology nearly 10 years ago through the Touch Bar on earlier MacBook Pro models before removing it. Touchscreens have long been common on Windows laptops, but Apple traditionally kept touch and desktop interfaces separate on its computers.