Apple's Next iPad Pro, MacBook Pro Upgrades Tipped for Early 2027 Launch

Apple's Next iPad Pro, MacBook Pro Upgrades Tipped for Early 2027 Launch

Apple is reportedly preparing a significant hardware refresh for the first half of 2027, focusing on new iPad Pro models and a redesigned MacBook Pro powered by next-generation silicon. According to reports from Bloomberg, the company is developing four new iPad Pro models and a new MacBook Pro, internally codenamed K104.

These devices are expected to be among the first to feature the M7 processor. The move toward the M7 chip suggests a faster silicon cycle as Apple seeks to address increasingly demanding AI workloads that rely on local device performance, power efficiency, and memory.

The 2027 MacBook Pro and iPad Pro Roadmap

The upcoming 14-inch MacBook Pro, codenamed K104, is expected to adopt the design of the high-end MacBook Ultra. This entry-level Pro model is intended to be more accessible than premium offerings while remaining a full-fledged Pro device. This strategy follows the March release of the MacBook Neo, a budget laptop that utilizes the A18 chip originally designed for the iPhone.

Simultaneously, Apple is testing four iPad Pro models for a spring 2027 launch. These tablets are expected to maintain the existing 11-inch and 13-inch display sizes, with upgrades focused primarily on performance. To support heavy tasks such as design work, gaming, video editing, and AI processing, Apple has reportedly tested a vapor chamber cooling system for the tablet, though a final decision on this cooling method has not been made.

While the 2027 window looms, other updates are expected sooner. Reports indicate that M5-powered MacBook Pro models in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes are close to mass production. Mark Gurman of Bloomberg suggests these could arrive between late 2025 and early 2026, potentially appearing in January. These M5 models are not expected to feature major redesigns but may include:

• Thunderbolt 5 support
• An updated 12MP FaceTime camera
• A new color option

Beyond the M5 series, there are rumors of a MacBook Pro OLED featuring a touchscreen, which Ming-Chi Kuo claims could enter mass production by late 2026 and launch in early 2027. This would be paired with M6 chips, bringing iPad-like capabilities to the MacBook line.

Supply Chain Pressures and Pricing

These product plans emerge as Apple battles supply chain issues and rising component costs. Tim Cook has stated that these pressures have forced the company to raise prices. For example, a MacBook Pro with 1 terabyte of storage recently increased from $1,699 to $1,999.

The company is also reportedly facing silicon and memory shortages, which may impact product schedules. These pressures have fueled speculation that upcoming devices, including the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, may also see price increases.

A Broad Hardware Push

The first half of 2027 may be one of the busiest periods in the company's history. In addition to the M7 Macs and iPads, the spring of 2027 is expected to see more iPhone launches than any previous spring. This is attributed to the postponement of the iPhone 18 to early next year to prioritize the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra in September.

Other anticipated releases in that period include:

• The iPhone Air 2, rumored to feature an ultra-wide-angle camera, longer battery life, and an A20 Pro ARM chip
• The budget-friendly iPhone 18e
• Apple's first foldable iPhone
• Smart glasses and smart home devices

More immediate releases expected before the first quarter of 2026 include the M5 MacBook Air, new Mac monitors (two rumored Studio Displays), AirTag 2, HomePod 3, and an updated Apple TV 4K.

Apple has declined to comment on the reported roadmap. The company continues to integrate deeper Apple Intelligence across its ecosystem while preparing for a post-Tim Cook CEO era.