Apple is expected to unveil its next-generation M5 chip in at least two devices before the end of the year. According to Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, the M5 iPad Pro has entered the final stages of testing, putting it on schedule for production in the second half of 2024. Meanwhile, the M5 MacBook Pro is set to launch this autumn, aligning with Apple’s usual release timeline.
What to expect from the new M5 models
While the new iPad Pro will feature the powerful M5 chip, it will unlikely include Apple’s in-house modem. Gurman reports that Apple will introduce its custom modem with the M6 series, which is expected in 2027. This modem, known as the C1, debuted earlier this year in the iPhone 16e and has shown promising performance.
Apple has reportedly begun early development on the M6 models, signalling a long-term strategy for integrating its proprietary modem technology across future devices. This move is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on third-party suppliers and enhance control over its hardware and software ecosystem.
Apple’s strategy for future releases
Apple’s M-series chips have consistently delivered impressive speed and efficiency improvements, and the upcoming M5 models are expected to continue this trend. If Apple follows its typical launch cycle, the MacBook Pro with the M5 chip could be announced in September or October, with the iPad Pro arriving shortly after.
The introduction of the M5 chip is expected to bring notable performance enhancements, particularly for professional users who rely on Apple’s high-end devices for demanding tasks. With the addition of Apple’s in-house modem still a few years away, users can anticipate further advancements in connectivity and efficiency in the coming years.
