Apple's M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros Set for Early March Launch

After months of speculation about Apple's MacBook Pro refresh timeline, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has provided concrete timing for the next-generation models. According to his Power On newsletter, the new MacBook Pros featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max chips will launch during the week of March 2nd. This timeframe aligns with Apple's macOS 26.3 software cycle, which is scheduled for public release in the coming days.

The launch timing resolves conflicting predictions about these high-performance laptops. While macOS 26.3 arrives imminently, Gurman clarifies that the hardware release operates on a separate schedule within the same development cycle. Current M4-based MacBook Pro models remain in short supply across Apple's retail channels, reinforcing indicators that new models are nearing release.

Apple typically announces products on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays, narrowing the likely announcement window to March 2nd through March 4th. The M5-series processors represent Apple's next silicon iteration, building upon the architectural improvements introduced in last year's M4 chips. While exact specifications remain undisclosed, the Pro and Max variants traditionally offer increased core counts, enhanced GPU capabilities, and specialized acceleration for professional workflows.

Beyond the MacBook Pro refresh, Gurman confirms several other Apple computing products in the pipeline. These include an M5-powered MacBook Air, a Mac Studio equipped with M5 Max and M5 Ultra configurations, and an updated Studio Display featuring HDR support alongside a higher 90Hz or 120Hz refresh rate. Later in the first half of 2026, Apple plans to introduce an entry-level MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip—marking a strategic expansion of Apple Silicon across price segments.

The roadmap concludes with a significant MacBook Pro redesign slated for late 2026. This model will reportedly feature an OLED display, thinner chassis design, touchscreen capabilities, and next-generation M6 processors. Collectively, these releases demonstrate Apple's commitment to annual performance upgrades across its computing ecosystem while gradually introducing form factor innovations.

For users requiring maximum performance this quarter, the impending M5 Pro and M5 Max models present a compelling upgrade path. The new chips will likely deliver meaningful gains in CPU/GPU throughput and machine learning performance while maintaining compatibility with the existing macOS feature set introduced in version 26.3.