If you have plans to upgrade to a new MacBook, you need to read this. Apple is reportedly deep in the development of a sweeping refresh of its Mac lineup. A massive internal list of 15 new models has been identified through leaked product identifiers. This leaked roadmap, extending through late 2026, reveals plans for the introduction of Apple’s M5 and M6 chip families, alongside a new budget-friendly MacBook model that will be powered by an iPhone processor.
Sourced by AppleInsider, it is said that while most new Macs released in early 2025 featured the M4 chip, Apple is preparing its successors. The M5 chip will continue the M4 series, likely offering a substantial boost in raw performance and AI processing. The development on the M6 chips has also started, signalling rapid progression into the next-gen MacBooks.
Macs with M5 chip in 2025
For the rest of 2025, Apple is expected to unveil a bunch of updates to the Mac lineup, with most of the devices getting the powerful M5 chipset. Based on the leaked list, here are all the device slated for an M5 upgrade.
MacBook Pro (2025)
The 14-inch and 16-inch models are set for a spec bump, maintaining their current design. Leaked identifiers (J714c/s, J716c/s) confirm M5 Pro and M5 Max chip configurations. No changes to the display and design expected though.
Mac mini
An M5 Pro chip variant (J873s) is in testing, suggesting a performance upgrade for Apple’s compact desktop. Sadly, no M5 Max variant for the Mac mini yet.
iMac
An M5-equipped iMac (J833ct) is also in development and is most likely to retain the same design as the outgoing model.
Mac Pro (2025)
Codenamed J704, an updated Mac Pro is expected by late 2025, marking a significant refresh for the workstation, which hasn’t seen substantial changes since 2023.
Mac Studio (2026)
Two new configurations (J775c and J775d) of the Mac Studio are in development, likely leveraging powerful M5 Max and M5 Ultra variants.
MacBook Air M6 (2026)
Following the late 2025 MacBook Pro updates, the MacBook Air models are expected to receive the M5 chip in early 2026. These 13-inch (J813) and 15-inch (J815) versions are anticipated to retain their current chassis design, primarily offering a performance upgrade.
The M6 chip with major MacBook Pro redesign in late 2026
In late 2026, Apple is reportedly planning a more radical overhaul for the MacBook Pro, coinciding with the platform’s 20th anniversary. This refresh is rumoured to bring a chassis redesign, making the devices significantly thinner and lighter. An OLED display is also a strong possibility, aligning with technology already present in iPhone and iPad Pro models.
These redesigned MacBook Pros (K114c/s, K116c/s) will feature the M6 Pro and M6 Max chips. The M6 chip is also rumoured to include a built-in cellular modem, potentially allowing MacBooks to connect to cellular networks directly.
An iPhone-powered MacBook?
Perhaps the most interesting leak points to two additional unreleased Mac configurations: J700 and J804. One of these, potentially J804, is rumoured to be a low-cost MacBook powered by an A18 Pro chip – the same one found in the iPhone 16 Pro. This move could signify Apple’s intent to re-enter the more budget-oriented laptop market, offering an “Apple Intelligence-capable” device at a more accessible price point. This model could significantly undercut the MacBook Air and challenge the likes of affordable Windows laptops.
