Apple may be planning an iMac Pro with M5 Max in 2026
Leaked internal software has revealed Apple is testing an iMac Pro with an M5 Max processor. Apple hasn't launched a fully new iMac Pro since 2017
Apple may be planning to resurrect the iMac Pro desktop computer line, marking the first time it has launched the high-powered all-in-one in the Apple Silicon era.
According to leaked internal software, Apple is planning an iMac Pro with an M5 Max processor and it could be here in 2026. The information comes from a kernel debug kit that Apple engineers use. This leaked version has revealed a number of codenames and platform identifiers that have led people smarter than I to conclude the aforementioned product is on the agenda.
MacRumors reports that the J833c identifier refers to an iMac. The running platform H17C refers to Sotra C, which is the chip Apple is expected to market as the M5 Max.
All this means in reality is that Apple is working on this product internally. And that’s a far cry from Apple definitely releasing it. The leaked kit also has references to an iPad mini with tvOS and a MacBook with the A15 processor, for instance.
Apple hasn’t launched a major iMac Pro update since 2017. After the first model was released, it only ever offered minor updates and was discontinued in March 2021. It packed Intel Xeon graphics so has been completely absent from the Apple Silicon era. Apple focused its attentions on the legacy iMac with a 27-inch version coming along to lead the way for Apple’s all-in-one.
For desktop computing the Apple Mac Studio standalone unit with M4 Max is the Apple’s most powerful product, but it requires a separate display.
Chris Smith
