Apple’s M5 Chip to Launch in 2025: Powered by TSMC’s N3P Process With Major Performance Gains

Apple's next-generation M5 chip, based on TSMC's advanced N3P 3nm process, is set to enter mass production in the second half of 2025. Prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that the M5 chip will bring significant computational and graphical performance improvements over the M4, alongside enhanced energy efficiency—key to better battery life for devices like the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air.

While Apple is expected to release the M4 Ultra chip next year, the M5 chip will follow a familiar release timeline. Macs featuring the M5 chip are anticipated in late 2025, with the MacBook Pro models likely launching in October or November. Notably, the M5-powered MacBook Air could make its debut in early 2026, with higher-end variants, including the M5 Ultra, arriving later that year.

Interestingly, while the M5 chip will feature in Apple’s Mac lineup, iPad Pro users may face delays. Instead of a spring release, the M5 iPad Pro is rumored to hit shelves closer to the year's end, alongside the OLED iPad Pro refresh.

Apple's AI servers, currently powered by the M2 Ultra, are also on track for upgrades. The company plans to introduce the M4 Ultra to these servers next year, enhancing cloud-based performance for Apple Intelligence features.

This staggered product cycle underscores Apple's strategic approach, balancing performance gains with incremental updates across its product portfolio. The M5 chip's adoption of TSMC's N3P process ensures a leap in power efficiency and performance, signaling a compelling future for Apple’s ecosystem.

What are your expectations for Apple’s M5 chip and its impact on the Mac lineup?