Apple M5 Chip in Macbook Pro: Expected Launch & Features

Apple M5 Chip Release Timeline: What to Expect

Apple is gearing up for the launch of its next-generation M5 chip, with big plans for its Mac and iPad lineup. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the M5 chip will first appear in the MacBook Pro sometime in the fall of 2025, followed by an iPad Pro refresh in the first half of 2026. This marks a shift from previous expectations, where many assumed the iPad Pro would be the first device to get the M5, based on how Apple introduced the M4 lineup.

A Shift in Apple’s Usual Chip Rollout Order

Apple’s decision to introduce the M5 chip in the MacBook Pro first is a departure from its past launch cycle. In 2024, Apple debuted the M4 chip in the iPad Pro in May, then brought the M4 to the MacBook Pro in October. This time, however, Apple seems to be reversing the order. While the exact reasoning remains unclear, it’s possible that Mac users will benefit more from the performance improvements that the M5 chip promises.

Mac Studio and Mac Pro Updates Before the M5 Arrives

Before the M5-powered MacBook Pro launches, Apple has already updated the Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chip options. The new Mac Studio features Thunderbolt 5 ports, improved graphics, and enhanced performance across the board.

Mac Studio 2025: What’s New?

Apple launched the latest Mac Studio with two powerful chip options:

• M4 Max: Originally introduced in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, this chip has a 16-core CPU, a 40-core GPU, and supports up to 128GB of unified RAM. Benchmark results suggest it delivers up to 75% better performance compared to the M2 Max.
• M3 Ultra: This chip introduces a 32-core CPU, including 24 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores. Apple claims it is up to 1.5 times faster than the M2 Ultra, offering significant power for professionals.

Pricing and Availability

Apple has maintained its pricing structure for the Mac Studio:

• M4 Max model starts at $1,999
• M3 Ultra model starts at $3,999

The updated Mac Studio is available for pre-order and will officially launch on March 12, 2025.

What to Expect from the M5 Chip

Apple’s M5 chip is expected to bring major performance and efficiency improvements. It will be built on TSMC’s advanced 3-nanometer process technology, just like its predecessor, but will also introduce enhancements in architecture and power efficiency. However, Apple has reportedly chosen not to use TSMC’s newer 2nm process for the M5 due to cost concerns.

That doesn’t mean Apple is holding back on innovation. The high-end M5 models will incorporate TSMC’s System on Integrated Chip (SoIC) technology, which utilizes a 3D chip-stacking approach. This method stacks multiple layers of chips vertically rather than spreading them out on a single plane, leading to better thermal management, reduced electrical leakage, and improved overall performance.

Apple’s Strategic Partnership with TSMC

Apple has been working closely with TSMC to optimize its next-generation hybrid SoIC package. This collaboration also involves integrating thermoplastic carbon fiber composite molding technology, which could help improve the durability and efficiency of future Apple chips. This deeper partnership suggests Apple is looking for ways to push the boundaries of chip performance while maintaining efficiency gains.

Early References to the M5 Chip in Apple’s Code

While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed anything about the M5 chip yet, hints have already surfaced in Apple’s internal code. Reports suggest that Apple plans to leverage the M5’s SoIC technology not only for consumer devices like MacBooks and iPads but also for its AI-driven server infrastructure. This aligns with Apple’s broader push into artificial intelligence, where having powerful in-house chips could give them a significant advantage in both device-side and cloud-based AI capabilities.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Apple Users

If Gurman’s timeline holds true, Apple enthusiasts can expect a busy few years ahead. The MacBook Pro will be the first to showcase the power of the M5 chip in late 2025, while iPad Pro users will need to wait until 2026 for the upgrade. Meanwhile, Mac Studio and Mac Pro users will get a taste of M4 upgrades before the M5 transition begins.

Apple’s focus on chip innovation continues to push the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and AI integration. While skipping TSMC’s 2nm process might seem like a cost-saving move, the adoption of 3D chip-stacking technology suggests that Apple is still prioritizing significant leaps in processing power. Whether you’re a MacBook Pro user looking for the next level of performance or an iPad Pro fan waiting for an upgrade, the M5 chip is shaping up to be a major milestone in Apple’s silicon journey.