Apple's next chip generation is in the starting blocks. The M5 chip is expected to significantly increase Mac performance again and trigger a new wave of device updates. The first Mac with the new processor could be released before the end of the year, while most models aren't expected until 2026. Numerous clues and leaks indicate that Apple is preparing for a major update year.
With the introduction of the Apple Silicon line, the company has taken control of the performance and efficiency of its devices. The M5 chip is the next step in this direction and is currently eagerly awaited. Insider reports, FCC leaks , and delayed delivery times for existing models provide clues as to which Macs will be equipped with the new chips and when. This overview of the current rumors shows how Apple's 2025-2026 launch schedule is shaping up.
MacBook Pro: First models with M5 in 2025
The MacBook Pro is likely to be the first to receive the new M5 chip. An accidental FCC leak revealed a previously unannounced model. At the same time, stocks of the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro are slowly running low—a classic sign of an impending product change. It's likely that Apple will equip the 14-inch model with an M5 chip by the end of 2025. The more powerful versions, the M5 Pro and M5 Max, could follow in early 2026. It's also possible that all three models—M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max—will be released simultaneously.
MacBook Air: New model in spring 2026
The MacBook Air with the M4 chip was released in March 2025. Accordingly, Apple is expected to release the next generation, the M5, in March or April 2026. Both a 13-inch and a 15-inch version are planned. The Air thus remains the slim entry-level model into the world of Apple silicon, just with the next generation of chips.
iMac: Update between late 2025 and early 2026
The iMac was last updated with an M4 chip in October 2024. Another update is on the way, likely alongside the new MacBook Pro or MacBook Air models. There are no concrete rumors yet about the exact date, but delivery delays for custom iMac configurations point to an imminent refresh. A timeframe between late 2025 and early 2026 seems most likely.
Mac mini: M5 version in preparation
For the Mac mini, hints of an upcoming model with the M5 chip have surfaced. In August, a new identifier for a Mac mini was discovered, suggesting an update in early 2026. The Mac mini last received an upgrade with M4 and M4 Pro chips in October 2024. Since it received neither the M3 nor the M3 Pro, it's quite typical for Apple to skip generations here. An M5 update in 2025 is considered rather unlikely.
Mac Studio: No change before the end of 2026
The Mac Studio was updated with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips in March 2025. Therefore, no new model is expected in the near future. Apple is likely to plan another update only once the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips are ready. Since the development of the Ultra versions takes longer, it could take until the end of 2026 before the Mac Studio gets a new internals.
Mac Pro: The big leap is still pending
The Mac Pro continues to use the M2 Ultra from 2023, making it the longest-unchanged model in the lineup. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, an M4 Ultra with a 32-core CPU and 80-core GPU was originally planned, but Apple reportedly scrapped these plans. The reason: The M4 Max architecture lacks the UltraFusion functionality required for Ultra chips. Therefore, an M4 Ultra is unlikely to be released at all. This leaves the option of equipping the Mac Pro directly with an M5 Ultra. Since Apple traditionally requires more development time for Ultra versions, this step is unlikely to occur until mid- to late 2026. An interim step with the M3 Ultra would have been conceivable, but would have been more timely with the Mac Studio updates – since this didn't happen, Apple appears to be clearly focusing on the M5 generation.
Other Apple products with M5 chip
In addition to the Macs, other devices featuring the new M5 chip are expected to be released in 2025. These include a new iPad Pro and a redesigned version of the Vision Pro. Both products are expected to be unveiled soon, according to current rumors. A new HomePod mini, an AirTag 2, and an updated Apple TV are also expected. Whether Apple will plan a dedicated event for these or release the announcements via press release remains to be seen. However, a fall event would be a typical time for the unveiling of the new Apple silicon generation.
The Apple M5 ushers in the next phase of the silicon cycle
Apple's M5 chip launch is imminent. The first models could arrive in late 2025, with most Macs following in 2026. The MacBook Pro is likely to be the first, followed by the MacBook Air, iMac, and Mac mini. It will take a little longer for the Mac Studio and Mac Pro, as the more powerful M5 variants won't be finalized until later. Apple is thus staying true to its rhythm: mobile devices first, then high-end models. The M5 chip will usher in the next evolutionary stage of the Apple Silicon program and further advance the performance of the entire Mac family—more efficient, faster, and a step closer to Apple's long-term goal of unifying all product lines under its own chip architecture. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including accessories for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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