Apple is entering one of its boldest hardware refresh cycles yet, preparing to mass produce its next-generation M5 MacBook lineup alongside new Studio Displays, possibly featuring Mini-LED technology.
TLDR:
- Apple is nearing mass production of M5 MacBook Pro and Air models, aiming for a release between late 2025 and early 2026.
- A new 27-inch Studio Display with Mini-LED backlighting is expected to launch in early 2026.
- The M5 MacBooks may feature 3nm chips, OLED displays, and faster Thunderbolt support.
- Apple could tease these products at a 2025 event, setting the stage for a major Mac refresh.
What Happened?
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and multiple industry insiders, Apple is preparing for mass production of M5-powered MacBooks and upgraded Studio Displays. The timeline points to a possible product announcement in late 2025, followed by full availability in early 2026. Codenames like J714, J716, J813, and J815 indicate both MacBook Air and Pro variants are in the pipeline.
Also in Power On: Apple is nearing mass production of its next MacBook Pros (code-named J714 and J716), MacBook Airs (J813 and J815) and two new Mac monitors (J427 and J527) https://t.co/UK4kcKsLF0
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) September 28, 2025
M5 Macs Poised for Major Performance Leap
Apple’s upcoming M5 chip will be built on a 3nm process, promising faster CPU and GPU performance, better power efficiency, and potentially smarter AI-driven optimizations. These upgrades are expected to headline both the MacBook Air and Pro models.
Rumors also hint at OLED screens arriving for the first time on MacBooks in 2026. Apple is reportedly working with Samsung and LG to secure enough OLED panel capacity for the transition. The Pro models could debut with 120Hz refresh rates, slimmer bezels, and brighter panels.
Additional expected features:
- Longer battery life
- Improved Thunderbolt standards
- Sleeker, lightweight designs
If Apple sticks to its usual pattern, we might see the MacBook Pro debut in fall 2025, followed by the MacBook Air in spring 2026. However, Gurman noted that internally, Apple is targeting early 2026 for the full MacBook Pro launch.
New Studio Display Aims for Pro-Level Quality
Alongside the M5 Macs, Apple is also preparing two next-gen Mac monitors, with one expected to be a Mini-LED version of the Studio Display. This 27-inch monitor would offer:
- Deeper blacks
- Higher brightness
- Enhanced HDR support
Mini-LED backlighting, already used in iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models, will bring Apple’s standalone display technology up to par with its most premium devices. The current LCD Studio Display was launched in 2022, so this update comes at a much-needed time.
Launch Timeline Still in Flux
Apple may hold an event in October 2025 to tease or preview the new products before launching them fully in early 2026. While the MacBook refresh will likely focus on the silicon upgrade, the display and build improvements are set to give the entire lineup a modern edge.
These upcoming devices are seen as part of Apple’s broader effort to lead the high-end laptop and monitor market, especially with rival PC manufacturers pushing hard on AI features and OLED displays.
What TechKV Thinks?
Honestly, I’m pretty excited about this refresh. The current MacBook lineup already performs incredibly well, but the jump to M5 with 3nm chips and OLED screens could be a game changer. Apple has always been great at optimizing hardware and software together, so I expect a seriously polished experience. Plus, the Mini-LED Studio Display is something creatives and pros have been waiting for. If Apple nails the pricing and features, this could redefine the premium Mac ecosystem.
