# Apple's Upcoming Macs and Potential Apple Music Changes **Published:** 2026-02-06T08:00:00.000Z **Topic:** Series Macs **Sentiment:** neutral **Publisher:** TrendWatcher — https://www.trendwatcher.in/article/636c4c24-24c8-4d78-b979-08437b76dd75 Apple is expected to launch several new Macs this year, including updated MacBook Pro, Mac Studio, Mac mini, and iMac models. Apple Music may also see new Apple is anticipated to release multiple new Mac models throughout the remainder of the year, following three launches earlier in the year [3]. These expected updates include refreshed MacBook Pro, Mac Studio, Mac mini, and iMac models, with some potentially featuring new M5 and M6 series chips [3, 4]. Concurrently, code spotted in a beta version of the Apple Music app for Android suggests the company may be exploring new subscription tiers, possibly including a lower-cost option with feature restrictions [1]. **Key takeaways** * Apple is expected to launch four new Mac models later this year, including updates to the Mac Studio, iMac, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro [3]. * The new Macs are rumored to feature M5 and M6 series chips, with some models potentially introducing new designs or display technologies [3, 4]. * Code in the Apple Music Android app beta hints at new subscription tiers, possibly with skip limits, which would mark a shift from Apple's historical stance against free tiers [1]. * Apple is also reportedly evaluating new OLED display technology for future Apple Watch models, which could improve power efficiency [2]. ## Anticipated Mac Updates and Design Shifts Apple's forthcoming Mac lineup is rumored to include significant updates across several models. The Mac Studio is expected to receive M5 Max and a new M5 Ultra chip, with no design changes anticipated [3]. The iMac is also slated for an M5 update, potentially arriving with a refreshed color palette [3]. For the Mac mini, both M5 and M5 Pro chip options are expected, also without outward design changes [3]. A major refresh is anticipated for the M6 MacBook Pro, which is rumored to feature a brand new industrial design that is thinner and lighter [3]. This model may also include an OLED display, a touchscreen (a first for a Mac), and a Dynamic Island instead of the current notch [3]. Additionally, a C2 cellular modem from Apple is a possibility for the M6 MacBook Pro [3]. Earlier in the year, Apple is also expected to launch refreshed high-end MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, potentially alongside macOS Tahoe 26.3 [4]. A new low-cost MacBook is also rumored for this year, featuring an A18 Pro chip, a 13-inch LCD display, USB-C connectivity, and a price point between $699 and $899, with iPad-like color options [4]. ## Potential Changes to Apple Music Subscriptions Apple appears to be exploring new subscription tiers for Apple Music, which could include a lower-cost option with restricted features [1]. This possibility arises from two lines of code found in the beta version of the Apple Music app for Android, referencing "Premium access required" and an error message stating "Can’t skip any more tracks" [1]. While a tech analyst noted these references could also relate to other features like radio stations, skip limits are common in competitors' offerings, such as Spotify's ad-supported free tier [1]. Apple Music has historically not offered a free ad-supported tier, with Apple Music VP Oliver Schusser previously stating that "free" was a "terrible idea" and expressing pride in the service's paid-only model [1]. This position contrasts with Spotify, which uses its free tier to convert listeners into paying subscribers [1]. The potential introduction of new tiers comes as Apple Music faces subscriber growth challenges relative to Spotify, with its share of US digital music subscribers dropping to 25% by the end of 2024 from 30% in 2020 [1]. Apple has previously introduced promotional rates and partnerships to attract and retain subscribers [1]. ## Why it matters The rumored Mac updates, particularly the M6 MacBook Pro with a potential new design and features like a touchscreen and OLED display, could represent significant advancements for Apple's computer lineup [3]. These developments arrive as computing needs are pushed by the growth of AI [3]. For Apple Music, any move towards new subscription tiers, especially those with feature limitations or a lower price point, would mark a notable shift in strategy for a service that has historically emphasized a premium, ad-free experience [1]. This could be a response to competitive pressures and subscriber growth challenges [1]. The timing of these potential announcements is notable, as Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is set to begin on June 8 [1]. ## Sources 1. Music Business Worldwide — [Apple Music code spotted in Android app beta hints at new subscription tiers...](https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/apple-music-code-spotted-in-android-app-beta-hints-at-new-subscription-tiers-with-spotify-style-skip-limits-report/) 2. Macrumors — [MacRumors: Apple News and Rumors](https://www.macrumors.com/) 3. 9to5mac — [Four new Macs are launching later this year, here’s what’s coming](https://9to5mac.com/2026/04/17/four-new-macs-are-launching-later-this-year-heres-whats-coming/) 4. Macrumors — [The MacRumors Show: All the New Macs Coming This Year](https://www.macrumors.com/2026/02/06/the-macrumors-show-new-macs-coming-this-year/) --- Cite as: TrendWatcher, "Apple's Upcoming Macs and Potential Apple Music Changes", https://www.trendwatcher.in/article/636c4c24-24c8-4d78-b979-08437b76dd75