Apple regularly sparks speculation when new products are forthcoming. The MacBook Pro and iPad Pro device classes, in particular, are in the spotlight because they represent performance, design, and innovation. Now there are concrete indications that the next generation is imminent. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has published new documents that point to several yet-to-be-announced Apple models.
Before a new device can be launched, Apple must clear certain regulatory hurdles. Part of this process takes place at the FCC, which makes information on submitted devices available in its database. These entries are often an indication that the market launch is imminent. This is precisely what has happened with several model numbers that apparently concern new versions of the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro.
New model numbers at the FCC
The FCC has released seven new model numbers (spotted by MacRumors ): A3357, A3358, A3359, A3360, A3361, A3362, and A3434. These codes represent devices that have not yet been officially announced. Typically, such numbers can be assigned to specific Apple product lines.
Notes on the iPad Pro M5
The numbers A3357 to A3362 suggest that these are variants of the upcoming iPad Pro. Models are expected to be 11- and 13-inch, each with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity. The timing is striking, as a video recently surfaced showing an alleged iPad Pro with an M5 chip. The new FCC filings increase the likelihood that this generation is indeed imminent.
New MacBook Pro on the way
The model number A3434 is particularly interesting. It points to a new MacBook Pro. The currently available MacBook Pro models are known under the codes A3112, A3185, A3186, A3401, and A3403. This new entry clearly indicates that Apple is updating the MacBook Pro lineup. A switch to the M5 chip, which promises greater performance and efficiency, is a likely option.
Comparison with current model numbers
A look at the existing serial numbers reveals clear differences. The current iPad Pro models are designated A2836, A2837, A2925, A2926, A3006, and A3007. The newly discovered numbers A3357 to A3362 stand out, suggesting a generational change. The same applies to the MacBook Pro, where the code structure also indicates a new device family.
Timing of release
FCC filings usually occur at the end of the preparation phase for a market launch. Therefore, there's strong evidence that Apple is close to a major presentation. Just last weekend, Bloomberg reported that Apple was close to putting the new MacBook Pro with the M5 chip into mass production. Along with the leaks surrounding the iPad Pro, evidence of an upcoming hardware event is mounting. Rumors are primarily talking about October or November, a classic timeframe for major Apple fall events.
Apple is apparently preparing big hardware news
The new FCC documents provide strong evidence that Apple will soon unveil the next generation of MacBook Pro and iPad Pro. The model numbers fit the existing pattern and clearly point to new devices likely equipped with the M5 chip. Combined with current rumors and reports, there's every indication that Apple will hold a hardware event in the coming weeks. This brings the launch of powerful updates to the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro closer – and Apple is likely to demonstrate once again that these device families are among the most important cornerstones of its portfolio. (Image: Shutterstock / Dontree_M)
- Apple M5 chip leak reveals powerful GPU performance in the iPad Pro
- New Siri features could become reality with iOS 26.1
- Apple accelerates production of M5 Macs and displays
- Apple is testing LLM Siri internally with a ChatGPT-like app
- Intel asks Apple for support – what this could mean
- Vision Air and iPhone 2027: Apple plans new display technology
- Report: iPhone Fold is reminiscent of iPhone Air in double form
- Apple Vision Pro: R2 chip should significantly increase performance
- iPhone 18 Pro: All the latest rumors about design and technology
- iPhone 18 & iPhone Fold: Apple expects sales boom in 2026
- iPhone Fold & iPhone 18 Pro: Faster thanks to new C2 modem
- Apple plans OLED MacBook Pro with touch and new design
- Apple Glasses News: Market launch planned for 2026 or 2027
- Apple plans ten new products – exciting releases until 2026
- iPhone 18 will probably come without Face ID under the display
- MacBook Pro 2026: Apple plans major upgrade with OLED
- Apple Intelligence: China version with censorship planned
- Apple will turn Siri into a smart answer engine with AI in 2026
- Report: iPhone Fold could be the first edgeless iPhone
- Apple Vision Air to be lighter and cheaper in 2027
- Apple launches iPhone Fold in 2026, iPad Fold arrives in 2028
- Apple relies on robotics: Focus on manufacturing without humans
