A consistent launch schedule has always been maintained for Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models, but according to the latest report, the company is planning something different for the M5 version. Instead of sticking with a Q4 2025 unveiling, the refreshed 14-inch and 16-inch portable Macs are slated to arrive in the first half of 2026. Interestingly enough, no reason has been provided for this delay, but we could draft a few ideas as to why Apple would make this move, assuming the report ends up being true.
Possible delay of M5 MacBook Pro series could be because Apple has yet to reach its shipment target for the M4 models, which may happen during the holiday season
An update from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman talks about the lack of powerful Apple hardware for the final quarter of 2025. The technology giant introduced the current-generation MacBook Pro models in October of last year, so it was immediately assumed that the M5 lineup would succeed the M4 range during the same month. Unfortunately, the Cupertino firm has different plans, because the report states that Apple is ‘considering’ pushing the new MacBook Pro series to the first half of 2026.
This reshuffling of the launch timeline means that the M5 MacBook Pro and M5 MacBook Air will be much closer to each other when comparing release breaks, which may have an adverse impact on shipments. The report does not explain why Apple is opting for a delay, but it could have to do with the shipment target of the M4 series not being achieved. Apple could use the forthcoming holiday season to push as many Macs as possible to free up inventory and prepare to launch the new family. However, unless we have a clearer understanding of what is going on behind closed doors, we can only conjure up mere speculations.
It is also important to note that Apple is rumored to announce its OLED MacBook Pro next year, and there is no confirmation if the M5 SoC will debut in these models, or if the company plans to use the M6 instead. In any case, launching two generations of high-end portable Macs is not a prudent step. It is also possible that Apple is only considering this option, but will eventually hold a press release for the new chipset and MacBook Pro announcements later this year.
Then again, given the potentially longer waiting time for the M5 MacBook Pro models to arrive, it gives buyers some time to contemplate over making the M4 versions their daily driver, which is not a bad alternative, considering that the base 14-inch version has been available at a discounted price for quite a while, retailing for $1,429 for the Space Black and Silver colors on Amazon. Thankfully, the more powerful configurations, including the M4 Pro and M4 Max, are also available at significantly reduced prices, so you might want to look at these options in your spare time.
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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