Apple’s third developer beta of macOS 27.2 adds a Dock animation that may offer another clue about the company’s reported plans for a touchscreen MacBook. When users click and hold an app icon in the Dock, the icon becomes slightly larger, echoing the long-press behavior used on iPhone and iPad.

The change does not confirm that Apple will release a touch-enabled Mac, but it arrives alongside other new touch gestures in the beta. Videos posted by @madeby_ldt and @craigapplecom show the updated Dock behavior.

A macOS animation with iOS-style behavior

On iOS and iPadOS, pressing and holding an app icon brings up a similar interaction. Extending a related animation to macOS could make the desktop interface more suitable for touch, although the feature could also be a broader design change within the operating system.

The beta reportedly includes additional touch gestures, which has fueled speculation that Apple is preparing macOS for its first touch-enabled Macs. Apple has not been identified as confirming a touchscreen Mac in the available information.

What the reported touchscreen MacBook could include

Reports indicate that Apple may introduce higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook models with touchscreens in October or November. The machines could be positioned as MacBook Pro models or potentially as a new “MacBook Ultra” line, with a higher price than current models.

The most significant display change would reportedly be an OLED panel. The rumored computers are also expected to use M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, while a thinner and lighter design could distinguish them from existing MacBook Pro models.

Possible Dynamic Island and cellular connectivity

Other reported features include a Dynamic Island integrated into the display and the possibility of built-in cellular connectivity. The latter could rely on Apple’s C1X or C2 modem, although the modem detail remains uncertain.

The timing of the macOS beta has drawn attention because the rumored MacBook models are expected to appear as soon as next month. However, software changes and videos from outside observers are only indirect evidence, so the final hardware, launch timing and product name remain unconfirmed.