Apple Postpones M5 MacBook Pro, Big Redesign Expected in 2026
According to experts, Apple postpones the introduction of the MacBook Pro with M5 chip to 2026. Instead of the expected autumn update, customers have to be patient even longer. The manufacturer promises a particularly exciting upgrade year for this.
MacBook roadmap with a surprising turn
Contrary to previous expectations, Apple will no longer present the MacBook Pro with M5 processor this year. The next generation of the professional notebook should only appear in the early 2026. Apple deviates from the usual upgrade cycle, because the current M4 models were only launched in October 2024. The shift could mark a strategic realignment of the company.
While Apple has mostly delivered annual updates of its MacBook series in recent years, the group now seems to rely on larger, less frequent jumps. The strategy is already known from other Apple product lines such as the iPad, where longer cycles between hardware updates have also become common.
Technical improvements despite the delay
Like their predecessors, the M5 chips are manufactured in the three-nanometer process, but rely on new technologies. Apple’s manufacturing partner TSMC plans the use of more advanced Soic packaging technology. This enables denser 3D stacking of the chips, which improves electrical performance and temperature management.
How Bloomberg reports that this technology could be crucial for the next generation performance increases. The update should primarily be updating the technology. Experts expect a performance increase of 15 to 25 percent compared to the M4 models. In addition, the MacBook Pro Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 5 (in more models) could be preserved. Ifixit: Apple M4 MacBook Pro in Teardown
Large innovations planned for 2026
Apple is also planning significant changes to the MacBook LineUp for 2026. The MacBook Pro is to get a new case design on time for its 20th anniversary, which is significantly thinner and easier. The original MacBook Pro was presented in January 2006 and was Apple’s first laptop with Intel processors after changing PowerPC. It has so far been unclear whether Apple starts with the new look directly in the first quarter or only uses it on a few individual premium models – experts are disagreed. It remains a surprise for 2026: old housing with new hardware or a complete fresh cell cure.
There is also a change to OLED display technology. These displays offer deeper black levels, higher contrasts and better energy efficiency than the current mini-LED panels. As a further premiere, the MacBook Pro 2026 could be equipped with a 5G modem for the first time-a novelty in Mac history. Apple has been developing its own modem chips for years and could use them in a laptop for the first time.
