Apple may finally be preparing to launch a cellular MacBook model, according to numerous sources. The reports claim that Apple is exploring the use of an internal 5G modem in a future MacBook, a move that would align it with Microsoft’s cellular-capable Surface Pro models and other Windows laptops that already support mobile data connectivity.
The timing of this development is significant. Apple has been gradually working toward independence from third-party chip suppliers, and its long-rumored in-house modem project is now reportedly close to a commercial rollout. While the company has not officially announced any MacBook with built-in cellular support, internal sources suggest that the engineering work is already underway. Apple acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019, and integrating its own 5G chips into MacBook hardware would mark another step toward vertical integration across its product line.
Adding 5G to a MacBook would solve one of the biggest limitations of the current Mac lineup. Unlike the iPad or iPhone, users have to rely on Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots to stay connected while using a MacBook on the go. A cellular MacBook would provide constant internet access and could be especially useful for business travelers, students, and remote workers who need reliable connectivity in areas without Wi-Fi.
Microsoft’s latest Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 are already available with Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips and support 5G out of the box. Apple’s competitors in the Windows ecosystem have made aggressive moves toward always-connected PCs, especially now that ARM-based laptops are gaining ground in both performance and efficiency. Apple’s current M-series chips already deliver exceptional battery life and processing power, so integrating a cellular modem could make the MacBook even more compelling in enterprise and mobile-first environments.
There are still technical and strategic hurdles to address before a 5G MacBook becomes reality. Apple has historically been cautious about introducing new wireless technologies into its computers, often waiting until they meet its standards for power efficiency and performance. A cellular MacBook would also require carrier partnerships and potential software adjustments in macOS to manage SIM provisioning, data plans, and roaming.
Even so, the possibility of a 5G MacBook aligns with Apple’s longer-term goals. The company has been investing heavily in custom silicon and platform integration, and cellular connectivity is one of the few remaining frontiers yet to be addressed on the Mac. As Microsoft continues to push forward with its AI-powered Copilot+ PCs and always-connected devices, Apple may be preparing its own answer in the form of a future MacBook with built-in 5G.
