New MacBook Pro release date: Here's when M5 Pro and M5 Max might debut

In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has provided an updated release timeline for the upcoming MacBook Pros featuring Apple's next-generation M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. According to Gurman, these new models—code-named J714 and J716—are slated to launch during the macOS 26.3 software cycle, which runs from February through March.

This timing aligns with previous reports from other industry leakers who have suggested the macOS 26.3 launch schedule, though Gurman's update serves as another strong indicator that the new MacBook Pros could be arriving sooner than many expected.

The significance of this timeline becomes clearer when considering Apple's typical product release patterns. While spring Apple products are usually tied to the x.4 release cycle and tend to debut in late March or April, the macOS 26.3 window suggests these MacBook Pros might arrive earlier in the season.

Adding to the anticipation, Apple has been experiencing low inventory levels for higher-end configurations of the current M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pros. This inventory depletion is a common pattern that typically occurs when a new model is approaching launch, as retailers and Apple itself work through existing stock before introducing updated versions.

While Gurman doesn't provide a definitive launch date, the convergence of these factors—the macOS 26.3 timeline, inventory shortages, and previous leaks—points to a likely debut sometime this month. He also notes that the Studio Display might be receiving a refresh soon, as it too is in short supply, though he remains cautious about making firm predictions.

Following these MacBook Pro launches, Apple is expected to enter a much larger product launch cycle that will include the iPhone 17e, M5 MacBook Air, new iPad and iPad Air models, and potentially other updates across its product lineup.

For consumers considering a MacBook Pro purchase, the timing presents an interesting decision point. While the M5-powered models represent a significant upgrade, Gurman suggests that most MacBook buyers might be better off waiting for the redesigned models expected as soon as October, which could bring more substantial changes to Apple's laptop lineup.

The M5 chip series represents Apple's continued advancement in custom silicon, building on the foundation laid by the M-series processors that have revolutionized Mac performance since their introduction. The Pro and Max variants typically offer enhanced performance for professional users who require more processing power for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development.

As with all Apple product rumors, it's important to maintain perspective until official announcements are made. However, the consistency across multiple reliable sources and the observable patterns in Apple's supply chain make a February-March launch window increasingly plausible for these next-generation MacBook Pros.