Apple is preparing to launch its next-generation M5 chip across five major products by the end of 2025. Built using TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process, the M5 chip will bring incremental performance and energy efficiency improvements compared to the M4.
Here’s a look at all five Apple devices expected to receive the M5 chip later this year—and what changes are on the horizon.
1. iPad Pro
The M5 iPad Pro is expected to debut in late 2025, likely in September or October, following the May 2024 launch of the M4-powered OLED models.
Rumors suggest the new models will offer:
- M5 chip with improved speed and battery life
- Possibly ultra-thin bezels (though timing is unclear)
- Same thin design and OLED display from 2024
Apple typically updates the iPad Pro every 18 months, making an end-of-year launch likely.
2. Vision Pro
Surprisingly, Apple is planning a spec bump for the Vision Pro, swapping the current M2 chip for the M5 chip by Q3 2025.
Key points:
- No hardware redesign—same display, build, and features
- Faster and more power-efficient M5 chip
- Not a full Vision Pro 2 (expected around 2028)
The update gives Apple a mid-cycle boost while the broader XR ecosystem matures.
3. MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch)
Both 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models will receive the M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips in October 2025, according to industry reports.
Highlights:
- Internal chip upgrade only for 2025
- Bigger redesign with OLED displays expected in 2026
- If you can wait, the M6 version might offer more radical updates
That said, the M5 MacBook Pro should deliver better thermal performance, battery life, and AI capabilities via Apple Intelligence.
4. Mac mini
A new Mac mini with M5 and M5 Pro chips is likely coming later this year, continuing the annual refresh Apple began in 2023.
Expect:
- Same design introduced in 2023
- Improved multi-core performance and efficiency
- Likely announced alongside MacBook Pro and iMac models
The M5 Pro variant will cater to pro users who want desktop power in a compact form factor.
5. iMac
The 24-inch iMac is also on track to get the M5 chip before 2025 ends. While the design is expected to remain unchanged, the chip upgrade will make it:
- Faster in performance tasks
- More responsive with Apple Intelligence features
- Ideal for users upgrading from Intel-based iMacs
According to identifiers found by AppleInsider, the M5 iMac could launch alongside other Mac updates this fall.
Final Thoughts
The Apple M5 chip 2025 lineup shows a consistent strategy: chip refreshes without design overhauls, likely setting the stage for major redesigns in 2026. Devices like the iPad Pro and Vision Pro will benefit from better performance, but the biggest leap may be felt in the MacBook Pro, which can push the chip harder under pro workloads.
If you’re looking for a new Apple device later this year, the M5-powered lineup may be worth the wait—especially with Apple Intelligence gaining more ground across platforms.
