Apple’s M5 iPad Pro Set to Launch Late 2025: What You Need to Know
- Apple’s next big iPad Pro upgrade is on the horizon, but not quite yet.
- Insider hints suggest the M5 iPad Pro will power up your tech dreams next year.
- Get the scoop on Apple’s strategic delay for the highly anticipated M5 iPad Pro.
Apple enthusiasts may have to wait a bit longer for the next leap in tablet technology. Contrary to recent rumors, Apple isn't rushing to introduce its upcoming M5 chip in the iPad Pro. According to industry insider Ming-Chi Kuo, the new M5-powered iPad Pro is now expected to hit the market in the latter half of 2025 or possibly early 2026.
Photo via MacRumors // Previous rumors indicated that Apple's iPad Pro range would be the first devices to upgrade to the Apple M5 chip. But, does that still hold true?
No M5 Chip in the Immediate Horizon
Ming-Chi Kuo, a respected name in Apple analysis, shared on Medium that the M5 iPad Pro will enter mass production in the second half of 2025. "The iPad Pro equipped with the M5 processor is expected to enter mass production in 2H25," Kuo stated. He added, "The company’s business momentum in 2H25 is anticipated to benefit significantly from Apple’s new product launches."
While this delay might seem significant, it's important to note that Apple typically schedules major product updates around this timeframe, including the latest iPhone models, Apple Watch iterations, and possibly new versions of the Apple Vision Pro. For users, this means their current M4 iPad Pro will remain robust and relevant for nearly two more years.
Why the Delay?
The decision to postpone the M5 chip integration appears to stem from cost considerations. Reports from The Elec indicate that Apple has opted out of the more expensive 2nm process developed by TSMC for the M5 chip. Instead, the M5 will utilize TSMC's 3-nanometer process alongside a new System on Integrated Chip (SoIC) technology. This shift is expected to enhance thermal management and reduce electrical leakage, leading to improvements in both performance and efficiency.
"With the adoption of SoIC technology, we could see enhancements in performance and efficiency, with a broader focus on Neural Engine tasks for AI and Apple Intelligence," explains the report from The Elec.
Photo via MacRumors // The M5 Apple iPad Pro is highly anticipated by Apple fans around the world, and the upcoming device has quickly become one of Apple Scoop's most searched terms of 2024.
Expected Release Timeline
Based on Kuo's insights and industry patterns, here's a projected timeline for the M5 iPad Pro and related Apple products:
Late 2025
- Introduction of new M5 MacBook Pro models, including M5 Pro and M5 Max variants.
- Potential updates to the Mac mini and iMac lines.
Late 2025 to Early 2026
- Launch of the M5-powered iPad Pro.
Early to Mid 2026
- Release of new MacBook Air models featuring the M5 processor.
Mid to Late 2026
- Expansion of the M5 chip lineup to include the Mac Studio and possibly the Mac Pro, depending on anticipated upgrades.
Looking further ahead, Apple is expected to unveil new OLED display technologies for the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro by 2026 or 2027. Additionally, there are whispers about Apple's first foray into foldable devices, hinting at exciting innovations on the horizon.
What to Expect from the M5 iPad Pro
While detailed specifications remain under wraps, the M5 iPad Pro is anticipated to offer a modest specs upgrade over its predecessor. The focus seems to be on enhancing AI functionalities rather than overhauling the device's design. Apple is likely to retain the ultra-thin profile and lightweight nature that fans appreciate, ensuring portability isn't compromised despite the increased processing power.
Jen Karner from Digital Trends notes, "The M4 iPad Pro was released earlier this year to critical acclaim, and the M5 chip is set to be a dramatic upgrade over the previous generation."
Photo via Apple Scoop (edited via Apple) // A concept image of Apple's unreleased M5 chipset, rumored to launch in 2025.
Manufacturing Insights
Apple has already placed orders for M5 chips with TSMC, signaling a solid commitment to the next-generation processor's development. BYD Electronic, a major player in electronics manufacturing, is set to exclusively assemble the M5 iPad Pro and the upcoming display-equipped HomePod slated for late 2025. This strategic move underscores Apple's focus on maintaining high production standards and leveraging trusted manufacturing partners.
Anticipated Features and Design
While rumors are still sparse, the consensus is that the M5 iPad Pro will continue to support Apple Pencil Pro and feature OLED displays, similar to the current M4 model. There are also hints that Apple might experiment with the orientation of the rear Apple logo, potentially shifting it to a landscape position in future iterations.
Apple seems to have moved on to producing its newer processors, but we still have several months with M4 products, including some new ones that need to be unveiled.— Ming-Chi Kuo
Photo via MacRumors // Apple's M5 iPad Pro might be the first iPad Pro with a landscape Apple logo, a notable shift from previous versions.
Looking Ahead
As Apple prepares to launch its M5 chip lineup across various devices, users can expect a series of product launches that reinforce the company's commitment to innovation and performance. The delay in the M5 iPad Pro's release ensures that when it does arrive, it will be a well-polished and highly anticipated addition to Apple's esteemed tablet lineup.
Stay tuned to Apple Scoop for more updates as we approach the late 2025 release window.
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