Apple Leak Confirms M5 Max iMac in Development as Professional Desktop Returns

A powerful new iMac powered by Apple‘s next-generation M5 Max chip is in active development. This news comes from recently leaked internal Apple software files analyzed by industry observers. The discovery hints at the potential return of a high-performance all-in-one desktop aimed at professional users.According to information seen by MacRumors, the details were found within a kernel debug kit. These files are used by Apple engineers for internal testing and hardware identification. The data references an iMac model linked directly to the “M5 Max” chipset, confirming its existence in Apple’s pipeline.

Internal Software Reveals Detailed Mac Roadmap

The leaked software lists the iMac with the internal identifier J833c. This model is associated with the platform codename “Sotra C,” which maps to the marketing name M5 Max. This type of data is considered a reliable indicator of future products in testing phases.Beyond the iMac, the files outline a comprehensive roadmap for Apple’s Mac lineup. They list upcoming MacBook Pro models with M5 Pro, M5 Max, M6, M6 Pro, and M6 Max chips. New MacBook Air, Mac mini, and Mac Studio configurations with various M5-series chips are also referenced.The leak even includes a mention of a MacBook with an A18 Pro chip. This device is widely speculated to be a new, lower-cost entry into the Mac notebook family. The breadth of data suggests Apple is preparing significant updates across its entire computer portfolio.

Reviving the High-End iMac for Creative Professionals

This development aligns with long-standing rumors about Apple reintroducing a pro-focused iMac. The company discontinued the 27-inch Intel-based iMac in favor of the Apple silicon 24-inch model. That left a gap for users needing more power and screen real estate in an all-in-one form.Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has previously reported that Apple was working on a larger-screened iMac for professionals. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also supported this notion. An M5 Max iMac would directly cater to creative fields like video editing, 3D rendering, and music production.The move would mark a strategic expansion of Apple’s professional desktop offerings. It would sit alongside the Mac Studio and Mac Pro, providing a powerful, integrated solution. For many users, this all-in-one design is a preferred and streamlined workspace.

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The leaked data strongly indicates that a high-performance M5 Max iMac is on Apple’s horizon. This machine would fulfill a clear demand from professional users who prefer the all-in-one design. Its development signals Apple’s continued commitment to its desktop computing lineup.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: When will the M5 Max iMac be released?

Apple has not announced a release date. Based on the chip’s expected timeline and typical development cycles, a launch could occur in late 2025 or 2026. These are estimates, not official information from Apple.

Q2: How powerful will the M5 Max chip be?

While full specs are unknown, it will be a significant step up from current M3 chips. Expect major gains in CPU, GPU, and neural engine performance for demanding professional workflows, based on Apple’s yearly silicon improvements.

Q3: What screen size will the new iMac have?

The leak does not specify a screen size. Industry analysts like Mark Gurman have suggested Apple is developing a model larger than the current 24-inch version, likely targeting the 27-inch or larger range favored by professionals.

Q4: How is this different from a Mac Studio?

The key difference is the all-in-one design. An iMax integrates the computer into the display. A Mac Studio is a separate desktop tower that requires you to purchase a monitor separately, offering more flexibility but less integration.

Q5: Why did Apple stop making the 27-inch iMac before?

Apple discontinued the Intel-based 27-inch iMac after transitioning its desktop line to its own Apple silicon chips. The company initially focused on the 24-inch M1 iMac and the Mac Studio, leaving a gap in the large-screen all-in-one market.

Trusted Sources

Information for this report was gathered from analysis of leaked Apple internal software data. Additional context and confirmation of development trends were provided by reports from Bloomberg and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. MacRumors provided technical analysis of the leaked files.