Apple recently unveiled new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models, marking the first Mac updates of the year featuring M3 series chips. However, there are still other Macs in Apple’s lineup awaiting updates to the latest M3 processors. Let’s explore the roadmap for the Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro, and what the latest rumors suggest.
Mac Mini
Apple introduced M2 and M2 Pro Mac mini models in January 2023, over 400 days ago. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a new Mac mini may not emerge until late 2024 at the earliest. There are no recent rumors indicating otherwise. It’s possible that Apple might skip the M3 upgrade for the Mac mini this year, considering the 26-month gap between the M1 and M2 Mac mini releases. If Apple follows an 18-month upgrade cycle, we might see an M4 Mac mini in spring 2025.
Mac Studio
The Mac Studio was updated with M2 series chips in June 2023. It’s logical to expect equivalent M3 variants for the Mac Studio. A report by Taiwanese research firm TrendForce suggests that a new Mac Studio model with a more powerful M3 Ultra chip is expected to launch in mid-2024. This new chip will be fabricated with TSMC’s N3E node, offering enhanced performance and higher production yield.
Mac Pro
Similar to the Mac Studio, the Mac Pro received M2 series chips during WWDC in June 2023. It’s likely that the next Mac Pro will receive an update to include the M3 Ultra chip. According to Gurman, Apple is expected to refresh the Mac Pro with the new high-end chip in the second half of 2024.
MacBook Pro – Already Updated
In November 2023, Apple updated its MacBook Pro lineup with M3 and M3 Pro chips. If Apple maintains its 18-month cycle for chip upgrades, we might see M4 MacBook Pro models in 2025. This aligns with rumors of the first MacBook Pro with an OLED display and possibly a touchscreen.
As we await these M3 Mac updates, it’s clear that Apple’s commitment to innovation and performance continues to drive the evolution of its Mac lineup.
*Note: The information provided is based on the latest rumors and industry insights and is subject to change as new developments emerge.*