Tim Hardwick
Apple has ordered M5 chips from TSMC as the company begins development of its next-generation processor for future devices, Korean outlet The Elec reports, citing Taiwanese media.
The M5 series is expected to feature an enhanced ARM architecture and will reportedly be manufactured using TSMC's advanced 3nm process. Apple's decision to ditch TSMC's more advanced 2nm process for the M5 chip is believed to be primarily driven by cost concerns. Despite this, the M5 will feature significant improvements over the M4, particularly by adopting TSMC's System on Integrated Chip (SoIC) technology.
This 3D chip stacking approach improves thermal management and reduces leakage compared to traditional 2D designs. Apple has reportedly expanded its collaboration with TSMC on a next-generation hybrid SoIC package that also combines thermoplastic carbon fiber molding technology. The package reportedly entered a small trial production phase in July.
Apple’s upcoming M5 chip is expected to bring significant performance and efficiency improvements across a variety of devices. Production could begin as early as the second half of 2025, with the first M5 devices potentially shipping late next year or early 2026. Assuming Apple maintains its typical refresh cycle for its proprietary silicon, here are the devices we expect to benefit first:
- iPad Pro: M5 chips could debut in devices in late 2025 or early to mid-2026.
- MacBook Pro: Models with M5-series chips are expected in late 2025.
- MacBook Air: M5 variants are likely to arrive in early 2026.
- Apple Vision Pro: An updated version of the headset with the M5 chip is expected between fall 2025 and spring 2026.
References to what is believed to be Apple's M5 chip have already been found in official Apple code. According to one report, thanks to its dual-purpose SoIC design, Apple also plans to deploy the M5 chip in its AI server infrastructure to boost AI capabilities in both consumer devices and cloud services.
Today's report confirms Apple's continued reliance on TSMC as its exclusive chip manufacturing partner. The Taiwanese foundry has been critical to Apple's successful transition away from Intel processors starting in 2020, as the company cannot manufacture its own chips without TSMC's advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Tags: M5, The Elec, TSMC[ 64 comments ]
