Apple macOS code reveals gesture support preparation
Code found within Apple's macOS 27.2 Beta update suggests the company is preparing for touch gesture support, potentially for a future MacBook with a touchscreen.
Analysis of the latest code from Apple's macOS 27.2 Beta update has revealed references to touch gesture support, which may indicate preparations for a future MacBook equipped with a touchscreen. The findings were reported by technology publication MacRumors after examining the operating system's beta files.
The discovered code entries suggest Apple has incorporated support for new touch gestures across several built-in applications. These include Safari, Photos, Notes, and Quick Look. Safari reportedly gained "touch sentinel recognizer" capabilities, while Photos and Notes have new gesture recognizers. Quick Look also appears to have received a new drag-based touch functionality.
However, the publication points out that these code changes might not solely be intended for a new device. It is also plausible that the gestures are being developed to enhance Apple's Sidecar feature, which allows an iPad to be used as a secondary display for a Mac.
Speculation about a touchscreen MacBook has been ongoing for some time. If a new model is indeed released, it would represent a significant shift in Apple's laptop lineup. The company has not commented on unannounced products or future updates.