Apple launches M5 chips for Ai. Coming to the new iPad Pro and Macbook Pro
The company has also updated the Vision Pro with the M 5, which now features a new Dual Knit Band designed to improve comfort
Apple today unveiled the M5 chip at the heart of the new iPad Pro and 14-inch MacBook Pro, completing the series of hardware upgrades leading up to the Christmas shopping season. The new devices are available for pre-order now and will arrive in shops on 22 October, with prices unchanged from previous models.
The M5 chip, made with third-generation 3-nanometer technology, marks a clear advancement in performance for artificial intelligence. According to Apple, the new 10-core GPU with Neural Accelerator integrated into each core offers up to four times more computing power than the GPU of the previous M4 - launched in May 2024 and used in the iPad Pro and MacBook Air models. The processor also introduces a larger memory bandwidth and a faster Neural Engine, enabling large AI models to be run directly on devices.
The new 14-inch MacBook Pro is the first laptop in the line to integrate the M5 chip. Apple claims that the new model offers up to 3.5 times faster AI performance and up to 1.6 times faster graphics than its predecessor. Battery life remains a strong point, with up to 24 hours of battery life. The laptop includes a faster SSD drive and retains the key features of the Pro range: XDR Liquid Retina display, 12-megapixel camera, six-speaker sound system and compatibility with macOS Tahoe and Apple Intelligence features. Pricing starts at €1,849. Mac sales did well last quarter, exceeding analysts' expectations.
The iPad Pro also integrates the M5 and adopts other components designed in-house, in line with Apple's strategy of reducing dependence on external suppliers. Models with cellular connectivity include the Apple-developed C1X modem, now featured in the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air, which the company claims offers up to 50 per cent faster speeds and 30 per cent lower power consumption than the iPad Pro with M4. In addition, the tablet integrates the N1 network chip - also debuted in the new iPhones - to support Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread, improving connection performance and stability of wireless networks.
In addition to more computing power, Apple is also banking on AI to revive iPad sales, which were down in the quarter ending June. The new model, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, retains the slim design and 'tandem' OLED screen introduced with the previous generation, with prices starting at $999. With iPadOS 26, the tablet introduces a multitasking system more akin to macOS, allowing multiple apps and windows to be managed in parallel. Prices start at €1,119.
