Apple has introduced a new generation of Macbook Pros at a press event in Cupertino, California, unveiling the first Macbooks that come with a dedicated touch screen in lieu of traditional function bars.

The new Macbook Pros will start shipping in two to three weeks.

The new Touch Bar, which is located just above the traditional keyboard, can be used for context-specific input, unlocking different functionality depending on each and every app.

During the press event, presenters demonstrated the use of the Touch Bar for video editing with a new version of Final Cut Pro, picture editing with Photoshop, and as a DJ for Algoriddim’s DJ app.

Apple is also adding Touch ID to these new laptops, making it possible to switch computer accounts and secure online shopping with fingerprint recognition.

The company will sell a 13-inch Macbook Pro with Touch Bar at various configurations starting at $US1799 ($A2371), and a 15-inch version starting at $US2399 ($A3160).

The new Touch Bar is located just above the traditional keyboard. Photo: AAP.

Aside from Touch Bar and Touch ID, both machines also feature other hardware updates, with faster processors, brighter screens and an overall lighter weight.

But there are also some changes that may not go over well with everyone: Apple is ditching some ports on the Macbook Pro, including the HDMI port and SD card slot included with older models. Instead, it is adding more Thunderbolt 3 ports.

The company is also shipping both devices with smaller batteries than the ones it used for previous-generation Macbook Pros, which could affect how long consumers will be able to use the devices without plugging them in.

In addition to the two new models with Touch Bar and Touch ID, Apple also introduced an updated Macbook Pro with traditional function keys. This model will start selling $US1499 ($A1975), and is available right away.