Sources familiar with macOS 26, which Apple is developing under the codename Tahoe, say the M5 model is already deep in testing. It’s apparently running on an early macOS 26.0.2 build — and that kind of testing usually means “almost ready.” Translation: the base model could drop before the end of 2025.
The beefier 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are said to be coming a few months later, likely early 2026. Those should ship with macOS 26.3, which lines up with Apple’s usual schedule for winter updates — beta in December, public release in January.
It’s Déjà Vu (Again)
If that timeline sounds familiar, it’s because Apple’s pulled this exact move before. The M1 MacBook Pro dropped in late 2020, but the M1 Pro and M1 Max versions didn’t show up until the next fall. Same playbook with the M2 generation: smaller model first, then the high-performance ones the following year.
Then Apple went all in with M3 and M4 chips, updating the whole MacBook Pro lineup at once in both 2023 and 2024. If the new report’s right, we’re swinging back to the “split release” routine — one model now, the rest later.
One Clue in the Paper Trail
Adding fuel to the rumor: FCC documents from September mention only a single new MacBook Pro model ID. Usually, Apple files two or three at a time. Seeing just one? That’s a hint. The most logical read is that the base M5 machine is ready first, with the Pro and Max versions still in the oven.
That also explains the back-and-forth between leakers over dates. Late 2025, early 2026 — turns out both might be right if Apple stages the release.
A Quick Look at the M5 Chip
The new M5 chip has already shown up in early iPad Pro leaks. Performance bumps look solid but not wild — about 12% faster multi-core and 36% better graphics compared to the M4. Apple’s keeping the familiar 9-core CPU setup, but it’s made on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process, which should help efficiency and thermals.
So expect smoother multitasking, better sustained performance, maybe a little more battery life — but don’t hold your breath for dramatic design changes. This round’s all about refinement.
What’s Coming Next
For bigger shifts, you’ll want to keep your eye on the M6 MacBook Pros. Early talk points to OLED displays, possibly a touchscreen, thinner build, and even cellular connectivity. Those chips are rumored to move to TSMC’s 2nm process, which could bring the biggest performance jump since the original M1.
In the meantime, the Vision Pro and iPad Pro should both get M5 updates later this year. Apple hasn’t said a word about holding a proper event, so it may just push these out with press releases or short announcement videos, something it’s done more often lately for smaller refreshes.
As for everything else — MacBook Air, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro — don’t expect to see new M5 versions until sometime next year.
If this staggered release happens, it’s less about surprise and more about rhythm. Apple’s been pacing its silicon upgrades carefully, and a two-wave launch keeps attention rolling without overloading the lineup.
Key Points
- Base M5 MacBook Pro likely before M5 Pro and Max versions.
- Testing is on macOS 26.0.2 (Tahoe), hinting at late-2025 launch.
- macOS 26.3 expected early 2026 with higher-end MacBook Pros.
- M5 chip offers modest CPU/GPU boost, improved efficiency.
- Major design overhaul expected later with M6 generation.