Updates
October 15, 2025: the M5 has been released ..... link here. MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and Vision Pro.
August 13, 2025: status of the M5 --
Apple's M5 chip is currently slated for release in 2026, not 2025 as initially reported. While the initial wave of M5-equipped Macs was expected to be the MacBook Pro models, those are now expected to arrive in early 2026. Following the MacBook Pro, the M5 MacBook Air models are likely to be released in the first half of 2026.
August 13, 2025: MacRumors says the same thing -- the M5 coming to Vision Pro 2.
July 10, 2025: M5 update; M5 coming to ProVision. M5 may be introduced end of 2025 (this year).
Original Post
What is the difference between the Apple M4 and M5 chips?
Apple: link here. The M4 was revolutionary and is only starting to show up in Apple productions. Now, already, we're talking about the M5.
The M5 family of chips will be manufactured on TSMC’s N3P node, the next step up from the N3E on the M4. Kuo says the new node “entered the prototype phase a few months ago,” but it’s the first time we’re getting three generations of chips in a row that use the 3nm node.
The M5 Pro, Max, and Ultra, specifically, will use “server-grade” 2.5D packaging, with the explicit purpose of improving production yields and thermal performance. This will allow the CPU and GPU to use separate designs, which is a major change from previous generations that use a conventional system on chip. Kuo also mentions that these high-end M5 chips will be “better suited” for AI inferencing.
More.
