Apple is reportedly accelerating the development and release of its next-generation MacBook Pro models, which will feature the highly anticipated M5 series chips. According to recent reports, both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models are slated to receive this upgrade, incorporating the standard M5, as well as the more powerful M5 Pro and M5 Max variants. However, beyond the silicon refresh, significant changes to the design are not expected in this iteration. Those hoping for a radical new look for the MacBook Pro will likely have to wait until 2026. It is then that Apple is expected to introduce a thinner chassis, enabled by the transition to OLED display technology. This timeline aligns with industry expectations and suggests that the upcoming M5 MacBook Pro models will retain the current design language. While specific details about the M5 chips remain scarce, there are conflicting reports regarding their production timeline. Some sources suggest that mass production began earlier this year, while others indicate that full-scale production may not commence until the second half of 2025. Regardless, the M5 series is expected to leverage TSMC's advanced packaging technology, potentially incorporating vertically stacked chips for enhanced performance, particularly in the Pro and Max versions. Furthermore, the M5 is anticipated to utilize TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process, promising improvements in both performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessors. The performance gains offered by the M5 are likely to appeal most to users who have skipped previous MacBook Pro generations. For those who recently upgraded to M4-powered machines, the improvements may be less compelling. However, for users still running older hardware, the M5 MacBook Pro could represent a significant leap forward in processing power and overall performance. For those not wanting to wait, discounts are available on current M4 MacBook Pro models.
