Apple Could Be Addressing Two of the Most Frustrating Limitations of the Mac

In recent years, the Mac has experienced significant growth and innovation driven by Apple silicon. However, there are still some shortcomings compared to its capabilities. Thankfully, it looks like two of these issues may finally be addressed.

Two Major Mac Limitations: Cellular Connectivity and Notch

Following the end of the challenging 2010s and the introduction of Apple silicon, the Mac has been on a positive trajectory. Apple consistently releases new designs and chips, and macOS is now more aligned with iOS updates than ever.

Nevertheless, a few persistent issues remain, and it appears that Apple is looking to resolve at least some of them in the near future.

Recently, we’ve received two promising updates about the Mac:

1. Apple is exploring the use of its proprietary modems in upcoming cellular Macs, according to Mark Gurman.
2. OLED MacBook Pro variants are rumored to replace the notch with a hole-punch design, as reported by Omdia.

While these developments likely won’t materialize until 2026 or possibly even 2027, they have the potential to address my two primary concerns regarding the Mac at present.

Reflections from an iPad Pro User

To be clear, the M4 iPad Pro serves as my main computer.

I have consistently favored the iPad over the Mac for various reasons, notably the iPad’s historical advantage in hardware and software investment from Apple.

A straightforward example of this advantage is Face ID. The feature debuted on the iPhone in 2017, followed by the iPad Pro in 2018.

I rely on my iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard attached almost around the clock. Interestingly, Face ID works flawlessly when the screen is oriented toward my face throughout the day. It would be an ideal addition for the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, and even the Studio Display.

Yet, seven years later, Face ID is still absent from the Mac.

I have similar sentiments regarding cellular connectivity and the notch.

Throughout its 14-year existence, the iPad has included cellular support. However, Apple has yet to extend this feature to the Mac for reasons unknown. I had hoped this would change with the arrival of Apple silicon Macs, but I’m still waiting after all these years.

I often find myself working on the go, and using a hotspot with my iPhone isn’t sufficiently reliable—and it drains my iPhone’s battery significantly faster. The cellular capability of my iPad Pro is a considerable advantage.

While notch-equipped MacBook Airs and MacBook Pros are not my top complaint, they still irritate me. This is not due to the notch being a significant issue but rather because my iPad Pro lacks one entirely.

I understand that the iPad features larger bezels to aid users holding the device, yet the notch’s presence on the Mac makes it seem outdated to me.

If Apple had to introduce a notch on the Mac, why not consider something more contemporary like the pill and Dynamic Island found on the iPhone 14 Pro? The flagship iPhone moved past the traditional notch two years ago, and it has never been present on the iPad, yet it remains a prominent design element on the Mac.

Conclusion: What about Touch?

Curiously, I haven’t mentioned touchscreen capabilities yet. Reports suggest that touchscreen Macs are in development, but it’s uncertain if they will ever reach the market.

The reason for my omission is that, personally, I prefer a cellular-enabled and notch-free Mac to one with a touchscreen. While I believe touch support would be beneficial for the Mac, I doubt I would utilize it extensively. That said, many users likely prioritize touch functionality highly on their feature wishlist.

What are your thoughts on these Mac limitations? Are you looking forward to changes? Share your opinions in the comments.

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