Abstract:
Apple’s latest macOS 27.2 developer beta once again releases a signal that touch MacBooks are coming. There are multiple signs that Apple is continuing to make software preparations for its first touch-enabled Mac notebook, and this much-anticipated new product is expected to be officially unveiled as soon as the next few weeks.
According to what developers discovered in macOS 27.2 Beta 3, when users long-press an application icon in the Dock, the icon will have a magnifying animation effect. Similar interaction methods already exist in iPhone and iPad systems. Long pressing the application icon will trigger the relevant operation menu. Now that this set of animations has been introduced to macOS, it is considered to be another subtle change that Apple is preparing for the touch input experience.
In addition to the new Dock animation, macOS 27.2 also adds a number of new system codes related to touch gestures. Apple has added new gesture recognition components to applications such as Safari, Photos, Notes, and Quick Look, including touch recognizers, long press recognition functions, and drag and drop touch support. These changes show that future macOS applications are gradually gaining more complete touch screen interaction capabilities.
However, outsiders have also pointed out that these new features are not necessarily designed entirely for touch MacBooks. Part of the code may also be used to enhance Sidecar functionality. Sidecar allows users to use their iPad as a second display for their Mac, and macOS Golden Gate has previously introduced full touch input support for this feature. Therefore, Apple’s expansion of touch gesture coverage may also serve Sidecar and future touch-screen Mac products.
Nevertheless, more and more software signs and supply chain rumors are corroborating each other. Reports indicate that Apple is expected to launch a new high-end MacBook product line in October or November this year, and it is generally believed that it may be named MacBook Ultra or be launched as a new generation of MacBook Pro. This will be the first Mac computer in Apple’s history to natively support touch operations.
In addition to touch functions, this new machine is also expected to be equipped with an OLED display for the first time in a MacBook product and be equipped with M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. At the same time, the new product is said to adopt a thinner and lighter body design, may include a Dynamic Island area similar to the iPhone, and is expected to integrate Apple's self-developed cellular network modem to provide built-in mobile network connectivity.
As macOS continues to add more touch-oriented features, including the pull-down refresh function that has appeared before and the expanding gesture support now, Apple’s “touch-screen Mac” concept that has not been realized for many years seems to be gradually becoming a reality. If the relevant rumors are accurate, then Apple will initiate an important change in the Mac product line in the next few weeks, bringing one of the most significant interaction changes to the MacBook since its birth.
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