Apple leaks images of new Macbook Pro ahead of Thursday release

US tech giant Apple has leaked images of its new Macbook Pro personal computer ahead of the device's launch on Thursday.

The company was expected to make a surprise announcement on October 27 to release the new Macbook Pro.

However, tech news site MacRumors reported that a glitch on an update of its macOS Sierra software revealed an image of the device, which includes a touch bar at the top of the keyboard, which will replace function keys and the power button.

The MacBook is one of the oldest Apple products, and has been criticised by many tech fans, who believe that its hardware is in need of an upgrade.

The leak appears to be a mistake from Apple, as it can be accessed through its latest software update for the technology.

Earlier on Wednesday, Apple reported its third consecutive quarterly fall in sales for its flagship iPhone, as well as staying cautious on its outlook for the holiday season.

Many investors had predicted that the woes caused to its main rival Samsung as a result of its malfunctioning Galaxy Note 7 batteries would lead to an increase in the company's forecasts, but it confirmed on Wednesday that it was only slightly above analyst estimates.