New Apple MacBook Pros with M5 Chips Likely Coming in March

New MacBook Pro computers with faster M5 Pro and M5 Max chips might be released by Apple in March. Reports say the computers are ready to go, and the new software needed for them is also almost ready.
By Newsroom | Technology, Laptops |

Speculation and insider reports suggest Apple is on the cusp of releasing updated MacBook Pro models featuring the new M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. Current inventory shortages for existing models, alongside the staggered release of macOS 26.3 beta, point toward an imminent launch. The anticipated release marks a significant update to Apple's professional laptop line, promising enhanced performance through the next generation of its custom silicon.

Context and Timeline

Apple's strategy of updating its MacBook Pro lineup with its latest processors appears to be unfolding. The 14-inch MacBook Pro was the first to receive an M5 chip update last October. Now, the focus shifts to the higher-performance M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, which are expected to debut in both the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. This move would introduce these advanced chips to a wider range of Apple's professional-grade laptops within the same year as the initial M5 release.

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The timeline for these new releases appears closely tied to the development and eventual release of macOS 26.3. Several reports indicate that the new MacBook Pros will launch concurrently with this operating system update. The progression of macOS 26.3 through beta stages, including the recent release of its third beta and the Xcode 26.3 release candidate, suggests that the software is nearing its final form. This timing aligns with Apple's historical practice of launching new hardware alongside significant software updates.

Further indicators of an impending launch include reports of diminishing stock for current M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro models at reseller outlets. This practice of managing inventory for older models is often seen as a precursor to the introduction of new hardware.

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Evidence of Imminent Release

Multiple sources converge on a narrow release window for the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros:

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  • Software Release Correlation:

  • The development cycle of macOS 26.3 is repeatedly cited as a key factor. Reports suggest the new MacBook Pros are tied to this OS update, which is expected to run through March.

  • The release of the Xcode 26.3 release candidate on February 3rd is viewed as a strong signal, as Apple typically synchronizes such software releases with hardware launches.

  • Inventory Management:

  • Several reports highlight diminishing stock of current M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro models at resellers. This scarcity is interpreted as a sign that Apple is preparing to phase out the older models.

  • Analyst and Insider Reports:

  • Mark Gurman of Bloomberg has been a consistent source, indicating that the new MacBook Pros are "tied to the macOS 26.3 cycle that runs through March" and could launch as early as March 2nd.

  • Reports also suggest that these devices are already staged in warehouses, awaiting distribution once the operating system update is finalized.

Processor and Hardware Details

The upcoming MacBook Pro models are expected to be powered by the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. These processors are designed to offer significant performance improvements over their predecessors.

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  • Chip Architecture:

  • The M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are rumored to feature a new chip design allowing for more flexibility in CPU and GPU configurations. This could translate to a wider array of performance options for consumers.

  • Some reports suggest the M5 Max could achieve multi-core performance around 30,000 points, indicating a substantial leap in raw processing power.

  • Connectivity:

  • Wi-Fi 7 support is anticipated for the new MacBook Pro models, representing an upgrade in wireless networking capabilities.

  • Design and Display:

  • Major redesigns are not expected for these particular MacBook Pro updates. The focus appears to be on internal upgrades, specifically the processors.

  • There are indications of Apple exploring OLED technology for future MacBook Pros, though this is not confirmed for the immediate M5 Pro/Max release.

Broader Apple Silicon Rollout

The M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros are not the sole new hardware anticipated from Apple. Reports indicate a broader expansion of the M5 chip across other product lines:

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  • MacBook Air: An M5 MacBook Air is also expected, though likely without a significant design overhaul. Details suggest various configurations with different CPU and GPU core counts, and RAM/storage options.

  • Desktop and Display:

  • A new Mac Studio and a Studio Display are also mentioned in the product roadmap. The Studio Display may feature ProMotion and HDR technology.

  • Other Macs: Further Mac updates planned for 2026 include an upgraded Mac mini.

Conflicting Timelines and Expectations

While a March release appears likely, some reports acknowledge potential for variation.

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  • "Any Day Now" vs. March:

  • Some publications use phrasing like "any day now" and suggest releases are "imminent," referencing the beta status of macOS 26.3 and diminishing M4 stock.

  • Other sources, referencing Mark Gurman, specifically point to a March timeframe, potentially as early as March 2nd, aligning the launch with the final macOS 26.3 release.

  • Role of macOS 26.3:

  • The dependency on macOS 26.3 is a consistent theme, but the exact timing of its release remains a factor. Some speculate that Apple might release the new MacBooks with an older OS version (macOS 26.2) if the final 26.3 is delayed, although this seems less likely given the evidence.

  • Redesign Speculation:

  • While most reports suggest the M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pros will retain their current design, one source mentions rumors of a "significant redesign" and "innovative features" for the lineup. This may refer to future iterations or different MacBook models.

Expert Insights

Analysts and tech publications offer perspectives on the likely impact and timing of the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros.

  • Mark Gurman (Bloomberg): Has consistently provided specific timelines, linking the MacBook Pro launch to the macOS 26.3 cycle and suggesting a release in March, potentially as early as the 2nd. He notes that the devices are "tied to the macOS 26.3 cycle."

  • MacRumors: Reports on reseller inventory dwindle, calling the launch "imminent" and noting that current M4 models "remain in short supply, indicating that the launch of new models is close."

  • Macworld: States that new MacBook Pro models are expected to launch "imminently, pending the release of macOS 26.3," and that devices are "already staged in warehouses and ready for distribution."

  • CNET: Confirms rumors of M5 Pro and M5 Max models becoming available soon, alongside a macOS 26.3 update, with laptops retaining their design but sporting faster processors.

Conclusion and Implications

The convergence of evidence strongly suggests that Apple is preparing to launch new MacBook Pro models equipped with the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips in March 2026. The primary drivers for this conclusion are:

  • The advanced stage of macOS 26.3 beta testing, which is intrinsically linked to the hardware release.

  • Observed shortages of current M4 Pro/Max models at retail, a common precursor to new hardware introductions.

  • Repeated reports from credible sources like Mark Gurman detailing specific timelines and the operational readiness of the devices.

The immediate implication is for consumers and professionals considering a MacBook Pro purchase to delay acquisitions of current models, as they are likely to be superseded very soon. The new M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are expected to deliver substantial performance enhancements, solidifying Apple's position in the high-performance laptop market. Beyond the MacBook Pros, this release is likely part of a larger rollout of M5-powered devices across Apple's Mac lineup throughout 2026. The exact release date hinges on the finalization and deployment of macOS 26.3.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the new MacBook Pros be released?
Reports suggest the new MacBook Pro laptops with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips could be released in March.
Q: What is special about the new MacBook Pros?
They will have faster M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, which are Apple's newest computer brains.
Q: Is there any other new Apple stuff coming?
Yes, Apple might also release new MacBook Airs, Mac Studios, and Studio Displays with M5 chips later.