gg2
Apple introduces new Mac Studio with M5 chips
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Apple announced new Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips on Aug 25, 2026.
The M5 Ultra is Apple's most powerful chip, boosting AI performance for pros.
Background
Apple has refreshed its Mac Studio desktop lineup, which previously used M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips. The new models feature the M5 Max and the all-new M5 Ultra, the latter being Apple's first quad-die chip, combining two M5 Max dies via UltraFusion. This update comes as Apple continues to emphasize AI performance and pro workflows, with the Mac Studio positioned as a compact yet powerful desktop for creative professionals.
How it unfolded
- Aug 25, 2026Apple announced the new Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, available for pre-order the same day.
- Sep 22, 2026The new Mac Studio models are set to ship, running macOS 27 Golden Gate.
- Late Oct 2026The highest-end M5 Ultra configuration with 512GB of memory is expected to launch, with pricing to be announced.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Apple touts the M5 Ultra as its most powerful chip ever, delivering up to 4.3x faster AI performance and 1.8x faster graphics.
- Analysts
- The Verge notes the M5 Ultra starts at $5,499, only $200 more than the outgoing M3 Ultra, but that model launched at $3,999 last year, indicating a significant price increase.