Apple's M5 Mac lineup reportedly leaks: full timeline, models, and specs

The key difference is the new M5 chip, which, based on early iPad Pro benchmark results, appears to deliver significantly higher GPU performance compared to the M4. No major design changes are expected, making this a performance-focused refresh aimed at improving graphics capabilities.

M5 MacBook Air (J813, J815): Performance boost for 2026

The M5 MacBook Air will reportedly arrive in early 2026, alongside the release of macOS 26.2. Two models have surfaced in code references, the 13-inch (J813) and 15-inch (J815) variants.

In terms of design, Apple is expected to retain the same slim aluminium chassis, MagSafe 3 charging port, and Liquid Retina display. The main change will reportedly be the move to the M5 SoC, built on an enhanced 3 nm process, which is said to bring modest CPU gains and improved power efficiency. Battery life could also see minor improvements as a result of the new chip. Additionally, the M5 MacBook Air may come with a slight price increase compared to the M4 MacBook Air, which launched at US$999. To maintain a lower entry point into the MacBook lineup, Apple is also rumoured to be preparing another model powered by an iPhone-class Pro SoC.

M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro (J714, J716): Advanced chip architecture coming

The higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models, identified internally as J714 and J716, are reportedly planned for release in spring 2026 alongside macOS 26.3. These chips are expected to utilise TSMC’s SoIC-MH packaging technology, which would allow Apple to separate CPU and GPU blocks, enabling more flexible scaling and potentially higher GPU core counts. We have already seen the M4 chip’s performance in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, and a more powerful GPU could further improve gaming on the Mac as its library continues to grow.

This change could result in notable graphics performance gains. However, external design updates are not expected this time, as the OLED-equipped MacBook Pro with a touch panel is reportedly scheduled for a later 2026 release, according to a known industry insider.

M5 Mac mini, Mac Studio, and iMac (J873s, J775c, J833ct): Desktop lineup refresh

Desktop models with M5 chips are expected to follow in mid-2026, likely during WWDC 2026 when Apple unveils macOS 26.4. The leaked identifiers include M5 Mac mini (J873s / J873g), M5 Mac Studio (J775c / J775d), and M5 iMac (J833ct).