Apple is reportedly gearing up to introduce an upgraded Mac Studio and new MacBook Air models in the coming days. A recent Bloomberg report claims the company could announce both products this week, following CEO Tim Cook’s cryptic hint about “something in the air” earlier this month.
The new Mac Studio, internally referred to as J575, is said to include Apple’s latest M4 Max processor. However, the higher-end version of the desktop might pair the M4 Max with an older M3 Ultra chip instead of the rumored M4 Ultra. This move could signal that Apple plans to reserve the M4 Ultra for a future Mac Pro update.
Performance and Pricing Surprises
The Apple Mac Studio is a 2023 model that features M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips. Apple advertises the Mac Studio as a mid-level desktop, however, it has bested the more expensive Mac Pro is a number of tests. The starting price for the Mac Pro is higher, but it still uses the same M2 Ultra chip as the Mac Studio.
The expected release of the M4 Max chip should allow for better speeds and efficiency. Combining it with the M3 Ultra could help Apple minimize expenses for users looking for higher performance basked with a reasonable price. The Mac Studio is currently, at times, $3000 cheaper than the Mac Pro. This has led to the Mac Studio’s popularity amongst professionals.
Firm Apple Schedules
It is possible that Apple will roll out Mac Studio at the same time as the new Mac Book Air’s, also speculated to be getting updated with M4 series chips. Typically, Apple releases updates before their major showcases.
The surprisingly unusual combination of M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips in the Mac Studio was pointed out by analyst Mark Gurman. His theory is that Apple is attempting to set the pace for updates, so they are going to bring an M4 Ultra upgrade to the Mac Pro mid 2025.
What to Anticipate
The new Mac Studio seeks to fill the void in the mid-range market that lies between cost and quality. M4 Max would be helpful for creative professionals and developers, while the more affordable M3 Ultra version would be suitable for economically minded individuals.
Apple has remained tight-lipped, but some details have already emerged, and prior patterns of Apple launches suggest there will be an announcement this week. If it is accurate, the new Mac Studio alongside the MacBook Air would likely define Apple’s 2025 hardware vision.