Apple will introduce its M5 chip in an iPad Pro model this fall, marking the second consecutive year an M-class chip debuts on an iPad before reaching the Mac, though this iteration presents distinct differences from the M4 launch.
In May 2024, Apple introduced its M4-class chip within an iPad Pro, a departure from its established pattern. Historically, all prior M-class chips, including the M1, M2, and M3, were first integrated into Mac computers before being incorporated into iPad models. The “M” designation had long been associated with the Mac platform. The M4’s initial release on the iPad Pro provided that device with a performance advantage well in advance of its availability on Mac devices. Current information indicates that Apple’s subsequent chip, the M5, will also launch first on the iPad platform this fall with the new iPad Pro, preceding its arrival on Mac computers, which is not anticipated until early 2026.
No. The m5 non OLED is launching very early next year. M6 is OLED. https://t.co/bvt7mK9JSy
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) August 12, 2025
Two primary factors distinguish the M5’s iPad Pro debut from the M4’s. The first factor involves a significantly shorter exclusivity window for the M5 on the iPad. The M4 iPad Pro maintained exclusivity of the M4 chip for a period of six months. The initial M4-equipped Mac models became available in November 2024, following the M4 iPad Pro’s release in May 2024. For the M5, the exclusivity period on the iPad is projected to be considerably briefer. The M5 iPad Pro is expected to ship during the fall, with potential release months including September, October, or November. Regardless of its specific fall release date, the M5 MacBook Pro is anticipated to follow shortly thereafter.
Mark Gurman has stated that the M5 MacBook Pro will ship “very early” in 2026. This timeline suggests a minimal gap, potentially as short as two months, if the M5 iPad Pro ships in November and the M5 Mac arrives in January. A more probable scenario suggests a three-to-four-month waiting period between the iPad and Mac releases, which represents a substantial reduction compared to the M4’s six-month delay.
The second distinguishing factor pertains to the advancements in iPad software. The landscape of iPadOS has evolved considerably since the M4’s introduction. When the M4 chip was released, the extent to which iPadOS 18 would leverage its increased performance capabilities remained unclear. iPad software has historically exhibited a disparity between its capabilities and the hardware’s potential. Consequently, the integration of a cutting-edge chip with existing iPadOS features generated limited enthusiasm.
However, the anticipated changes within iPadOS 26 are expected to alter this dynamic. The upcoming M5 iPad Pro model is poised to be the first iPad Pro to feature software that adequately complements its hardware performance. This alignment between hardware and software has been a long-standing user request, which Apple is now positioned to fulfill. While the M5 iPad Pro may primarily represent a specification update, it is anticipated to be the first instance where iPadOS can genuinely capitalize on such a hardware enhancement.
Features within iPadOS 26, such as advanced windowing capabilities and improved multi-application support, are expected to benefit from the M5 chip’s enhanced processing power. This integration of a new chip with optimized software is a development that has generated anticipation among long-term iPad Pro users.
The accessories often utilized with iPad Pro models include:
- Audio Device: AirPods Pro 2, available at $169, reduced from $249.
- Power Adapter: A 100W USB-C power adapter designed for rapid charging.
- Protection: A tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag, which offers both protection and aesthetic appeal.
- Cable: A Baseus 10-foot USB-C cable, providing extended reach for connectivity.
