M5 MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Mini Coming in 2026
â–¼ Summary
– Apple will launch MacBook Air models with the M5 chip in spring 2026 and M5 Pro/Max MacBook Pro models earlier that year.
– No design changes are expected for these 2026 MacBook Air and Pro models, as Apple is focusing on chip upgrades.
– A significant MacBook Pro redesign with thinner, lighter OLED displays and touch screens is planned for late 2026 or early 2027.
– The MacBook Air received its last design update in 2022 and may get an updated LCD display in 2027.
– Apple is developing new Mac Studio and Mac mini models with M5 Pro/Max chips and working on updated external displays.
Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce its next-generation M5 chip across several Mac models beginning in 2026, with the M5 MacBook Air expected to launch in spring of that year. According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple is also developing M5 Pro and M5 Max configurations for MacBook Pro models, which are slated for release earlier in 2026. These initial updates are anticipated to focus primarily on internal performance improvements rather than external redesigns.
The MacBook Pro lineup is not expected to receive any major aesthetic changes with the M5 introduction. Instead, Apple is reportedly saving a more substantial overhaul for late 2026 or early 2027. This future refresh would represent the first significant design update to the MacBook Pro since 2021 and may include thinner, lighter models featuring OLED displays and potential touch screen functionality.
Meanwhile, the MacBook Air received its most recent design update in 2022, followed by the introduction of a 15-inch model in 2023. Current rumors suggest the MacBook Air won’t see another design revision until 2027, when Apple may update its LCD display technology. This timing aligns with the company’s typical product refresh cycles for its consumer laptop lineup.
Beyond laptops, Apple is also working on updated versions of its desktop computers. The Mac Studio and Mac mini are both in development to receive M5-series chips, likely including M5 Pro and M5 Max variants for professional users. These desktop updates may coincide with the release of new external displays, including what appears to be a second-generation Studio Display. However, specific timing for these desktop and display launches remains unclear, as Apple has not yet finalized its release schedule for these products.
The strategic rollout of M5 chips across Apple’s computing portfolio demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to its silicon transition. By focusing on performance enhancements before implementing design changes, Apple appears to be following a pattern established during previous chip transitions. This approach allows the company to refine its manufacturing processes and gather user feedback before committing to major hardware redesigns.
(Source: Mac Rumors)
