Apple readies several new Macs with next-generation M2 chip

Bloomberg

SAN FRANCISCO: Apple Inc. has started widespread internal testing of several new Mac models with next-generation M2 chips, according to developer logs, part of its push to make more powerful computers using home-grown processors.

The company is testing at least nine new Macs with four different M2-based chips, the successors to the current M1 line, with third-party apps in its App Store, according to the logs, which were corroborated by people familiar with the matter.

The move is a key step in the development process, suggesting that the new machines may be nearing release in the coming months.

The M2 chip is Apple’s latest attempt to push the boundaries of computer processing after a split with Intel Corp. in recent years. Apple has gradually replaced Intel chips with its own silicon and now aims to make further gains with a more advanced line.

After years of slow growth, the Mac computer division enjoyed a resurgence the past two years, helped in part by home office workers buying new equipment.

The business generated $35.2 billion in sales in the past fiscal year, which is about 10% of Apple’s total.

Testing is far along in some cases, but there are no guarantees that all the models will ultimately be released. A spokeswoman for the California-based company did not comment on the plans.

Apple is also testing a Mac mini with an M1 Pro chip, the same processor used in the entry-level 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros. That machine is codenamed J374.

The company has tested an M1 Max version of the Mac mini as well, but the new Mac Studio may make these machines redundant.

The new MacBook Air, lowend MacBook Pro and new Mac mini are scheduled to debut as early as this year, with at least two Macs planned for launch around the middle of the year, Bloomberg has previously reported. The new MacBook Air is destined to be the product’s biggest redesign in its history, adding a thinner frame and MagSafe charging.

Logs maintained by developers have accurately predicted specifications of upcoming Macs in the past. Last year, logs revealed that the MacBook Pro chips would be named the M1 Pro and M1 Max.

Apple hasn’t updated the MacBook Air, Mac mini or the entry-level MacBook Pro since it launched the original M1 chip in November 2020.