This article may contain affiliate links. Learn more on our Partner Program page.
According to current reports, Apple will first introduce its next generation of chips, the M5, in the MacBook Pro. This means the company is changing its previous strategy, as with the current M4 chip, the iPad Pro was the first device with the new processor. The switch to the M5 is scheduled to begin in fall 2025, with other Mac models to follow. The iPad Pro will also get the M5, but probably not until late 2025 or early 2026.
Apple has consistently used its own processors for several years and has significantly improved the performance and efficiency of its devices with the M chips. The M5 is expected to continue this trend, but the new chip will not appear in the iPad Pro first. Instead, the M5 will debut in the MacBook Pro, which suggests that Apple is once again placing greater focus on its laptops. The introduction of the M5 chips will extend over several months and reach different Mac models at different times.
The schedule for the introduction of the M5 chip
Loud Bloomberg Apple is expected to begin rolling out the M5 in fall 2025. Before then, probably in March 2025, the company will launch new MacBook Air models with the M4 chip. This will be followed by updates for the Mac Studio and Mac Pro with the M4. These devices are expected to be announced at WWDC in June 2025. After WWDC, the transition to the M5 chip will begin. The MacBook Pro will be the first to be updated, usually in October or November. Other Mac models such as the Mac mini and iMac could also receive an M5 update by the end of 2025. The iPad Pro will not get the new chip until later, possibly in late 2025 or even early 2026.
Why the MacBook Pro gets the M5 first
The fact that Apple is putting the M5 chip in the MacBook Pro first suggests a change in priority. The M4 initially equipped the iPad Pro with the new processor, but this time the focus is on the Mac line. One possible reason for this is that the MacBook Pro plays a more important role for professional users. It is often used by developers, creatives and companies that could benefit from the increased performance of the M5. In addition, Apple could first test the M5 chip in larger devices before using it in more compact models such as the iPad Pro.
Which other devices will be equipped with the M5?
In addition to the MacBook Pro, other devices are expected to receive an upgrade during the M5 cycle. Apple will probably follow its usual release schedule.
- The Mac mini and iMac could be equipped with the M5 before the end of 2025
- The Mac Studio and Mac Pro, which will receive an M4 update in summer 2025, will probably not switch to the M5 until 2026
- The next generation of Apple Vision Pro is also expected to be equipped with the M5
What does this mean for users?
For users, the question is whether it is worth waiting for the M5 or buying a device with an M4 or older processor now. If you urgently need a new MacBook or iPad, you will still get strong performance with the M4. However, if you are planning for the long term and want the best model available, you should wait until fall 2025 for the first M5 devices. The introduction of the M5 will take several months, so not all Apple products will receive the update immediately. iPad Pro users in particular will have to be patient if they want the device with the new chip.
Apple shifts focus – MacBook Pro gets M5 before iPad Pro
With the introduction of the M5, Apple is changing its previous strategy and is focusing more on the MacBook Pro series. The MacBook Pro will be the first device with the new chip, while the iPad Pro will follow later. Other Mac models will also gradually switch to the M5, which will continue until 2026. For users, this means that they should carefully consider their purchasing decisions. While the M4 already offers strong performance, the M5 is expected to be even more efficient and powerful. However, those who want the latest will have to wait a little longer until the first devices hit the market in autumn 2025. (Photo by Unsplash / Anthony Garand)
- Apple Maps: Are paid search ads coming soon?
- Apple develops new Studio Display – release by 2026?
- iPhone SE 4: Apple's next successful model?
- iPhone SE 4 will be iPhone 16E? Tim Cook's tweet suggests it
- Nomad Universal Apple Watch Cable – Practical or expensive?
- Apple Vision Pro: New clues about Apple Intelligence update
