New Apple MacBooks to be launched on 27 October

MacBook Pro will only offer USB-C, with 13in and 15in models using AMD's Polaris GPU

Rumours that Apple will, finally, launch a series of new MacBooks to replace its current ageing line-up - some of which are more than four years old - have been firmed up after Apple sources told Recode that a Mac launch has been pencilled in for the end of the month.

It follows a series of rumours, all pointing to a 27 October launch date, for Apple's long-rumoured MacBook refresh.

Twitter user Zee M. Kane received an email last week from a San Francisco-based MacBook sleeve maker called Waterfield, which is already offering accessories for Apple's yet to be announced MacBooks.

Waterfield hasn't confirmed an official launch date, but advertises an 'introductory offer' until 27 October, hinting that this is when the new MacBooks will make their debut. Previous rumours have suggested a late October launch.

Thanks to yet more online speculation, we already know a lot about Apple's incoming MacBooks.

Reports on Tuesday claimed that Apple planned to ditch traditional USB, Thunderbolt 2 and Magsafe connectivity on the next-gen 13in and 15in MacBook Pros, opting for USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 instead.

These MacBook Pros will also reportedly feature a touch-sensitive OLED bar that replaces the physical function keys along the top of the keyboard, and Apple's macOS 10.12.1 operating system. The highest-spec 15in MacBook Pro is tipped to use AMD's Polaris GPU.

Related: MacBook sales slump 13 per cent in Q3 as Appleprepares to refresh line-up

Apple's MacBook Air line is also set for a refresh, but the firm will launch a new 13in model only, according to reports, and will dump the 11in model.

Previous reports suggested that Apple may include USB Type-C on the new MacBook Air, which could mean that the device will lose its traditional USB ports.

Apple is also reportedly working with LG on a 5K external display to replace the discontinued Apple Thunderbolt Display, although it's unclear whether this will be launched later this month.