Hello new MacBook Pro, goodbye 11in Air? Apple expected to release new Macs 'within weeks'

At Apple's September iPhone 7 launch everyone was glued to Tim Cook as he unveiled the new smartphone; however there was also a legion of fans hoping to hear more about a new MacBook range, but sadly they were met with radio silence. We all know something's being cooked-up, though, and the latest rumours are we'll see a refreshed line-up within weeks.

A 27 October shipping date could be on the cards for a whole new family of MacBooks including an updated Pro model that's expected to sport a thinner design, an OLED touch bar and a port overhaul that will do away with traditional USB-A input for USB-C and new MagSafe charging. Touch ID, which is used to unlock the iPhone and iPad, is also being rumoured to feature on the laptops.

While fans have been anticipating an update for sometime it was Macotakara that has thrown fuel on the rumour of an October date by claiming "information from a reliable Chinese supplier" said "Apple is planning to announce the new MacBook Pro within this month, and begin shipping to retailers in October". This latest nugget of information will come as relief for laptop lovers who were beginning to think the release may be pushed back to 2017.

Alongside what is being described as the 'most significant updates yet' the new MacBook Pro 13 and 15in models, it's being rumoured Apple may discontinue the 11in MacBook Air, which was first introduced back in 2010, and instead only focus efforts on the 13in model – potentially quashing rumours Apple could kill off the Air range entirely after the introduction of the 12in MacBook, which shares the same thinness of the 13in Air.

So, if you're looking or lusting after a new Apple MacBook pencil a ring around 27 October in your calendar. This may be the strongest hint yet, but it is still not confirmed. We'll update you when we hear more.