Apple is seriously considering producing touch-screen Macs that Steve Jobs called ‘ergonomically terrible’
- Apple engineers are actively engaged in the project, although a launch has not been finalised, according to sources
- Rivals such as Microsoft and Lenovo Group have increasingly added touch screens to computers, putting pressure on Apple to do the same
Apple engineers are actively engaged in the project, indicating that the company is seriously considering producing touch-screen Macs for the first time, according to people familiar with the efforts. Still, a launch has not been finalised and the plans could change.
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For more than a decade, Apple has argued that touch screens do not work well on laptops and that the iPad is a better option if someone wants a touch interface. Apple also has concerns that touch-screen Macs could cannibalise iPad sales.
But rivals have increasingly added touch screens to personal computers, putting pressure on Apple to do the same. A Mac resurgence in recent years also has made the business a bigger moneymaker than the iPad – and the company wants to keep its computer line-up as compelling as possible.
Based on current internal deliberations, Apple could launch its first touch-screen Mac in 2025 as part of a larger update to the MacBook Pro, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans are private.
A representative for Cupertino, California-based Apple declined to comment.
