The inbound 14-inch MacBook Pro and 16-inch MacBook Pro models could end up equipped with an iPhone-style notch, with images allegedly depicting a display panel for the line bearing the controversial design decision.
The notch in the iPhone 13 and earlier models have been the source of many complaints and criticism but the infamous screen cut-out largely stuck to only Apple's mobile device lines. In a social media posting, it is rumored that something similar could be coming to the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Oh no. Why is the new MacBook Pro screen notched? pic.twitter.com/zO67bl81fX
-- DuanRui (@duanrui1205) October 16, 2021
In Weibo posts spotted by leaker DuanRui on Twitter, a screen for the MacBook Pro is allegedly depicted with an element similar to the infamous iPhone notch, at the top of the display. The linked source also mentions the use of a "Safe Area" in AppKit, referring to the concept of the area within the iPhone display that resided below the notch itself.
While the iPhone notch exists to fill out the display and to expose multiple TrueDepth camera array elements to the user, it is said that the notch won't necessarily provide the same features in the MacBook Pro as it does in the smartphone variant. According to Rui, Face ID will not be available to use, but Touch ID will remain in some form.
Apple is anticipated to launch the new MacBook Pro models during its October 18 "Unleashed" event, with the new variants expected to offer Apple Silicon as well as an upgraded display to mini LED backlighting.
Other rumors for the models include the use of smaller bezels, a 1080p webcam, 16GB of memory for the base models, and an updated charging brick.