M6 MacBook Ultra With 5G Could Hurt iPad Sales, Report Claims

Apple’s upcoming M6 MacBook Ultra could bring a major shift to the Mac lineup if the company adds 5G cellular connectivity to the redesigned models. The upgrade would make the MacBook Pro more useful for people who work while travelling, and it could also make some buyers rethink whether they still need a cellular iPad for productivity. The redesigned lineup is expected to bring a slimmer body, an OLED display, a new hinge, touchscreen support, and improved cooling. However, cellular connectivity stands out because it gives Mac users the same always-connected freedom that iPad users have had for years, while still offering the full macOS experience. United Daily News reported that Apple’s next high-end MacBook model has been linked to touch support, 5G networking, M6 Pro and M6 Max chips, and a new cooling setup. “Rumors about the MacBook Ultra have been circulating for a long time. Previous reports indicated that the device would also feature built-in 5G cellular networks, be equipped with M6 Pro and M6 Max processors, and be upgraded to an active heat dissipation plate.” 5G Could Make the M6 MacBook Pro a Stronger iPad Alternative The biggest concern for iPad sales comes from the productivity gap between iPadOS and macOS. Apple has improved iPadOS over the years, but many users still prefer macOS for multitasking, file handling, professional apps, and desktop workflows. If Apple adds 5G to the M6 MacBook Pro, buyers who previously chose a cellular iPad for travel and remote work will have a stronger reason to buy a Mac instead. Apple will likely charge extra for the cellular model, and eSIM support makes the most sense for a modern MacBook design. The base M6 MacBook Pro may keep the older design, while the bigger upgrades could stay limited to the M6 Pro and M6 Max versions. If Apple follows that route, 5G could become a premium feature first before reaching more affordable MacBook models later.