In summary:
- Macworld reports that new M5 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models are expected to launch imminently, potentially as early as March 2.
- The release timing aligns with OS 26.3 and current M4 model shortages, suggesting Apple’s annual MacBook Air update cycle continues.
- Additional Mac updates planned for 2026 include upgraded Mac Studio, Mac mini, new Studio Display, and a low-cost MacBook with iPhone chip.
In the latest episode of “New Mac Watch,” Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports in his weekly Power On newsletter that the new laptops we’ve all been waiting for–the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros and the M5 MacBook Air–are “coming shortly.”
As has been previously reported, Gurman reiterated that the laptops’ release is tied to OS 26.3, which is expected to be released early this week. In his latest report, Gurman now says that a product launch tied to that OS cycle “is currently slated for as early as the week of March 2.”
The current M4 Pro and Max MacBook Pros have been in short supply for weeks, indicating that a new release is imminent. The current M4 MacBook Air was released on March 5 of 2025, so a March 2 release of the M5 MacBook Air fits with its annual release cycle.
Gurman’s latest report also mentions the new low-cost MacBook with an iPhone chip, but he doesn’t say whether the laptop will be part of this release cycle. He addresses its release with a vague “in the first half of the year.”
Gurman covered the rest of the Mac lineup in his report, stating that the upgraded Mac Studio “shouldn’t arrive too long after the spring Mac refresh.” The Mac mini is also due for a 2026 release, but Gurman didn’t offer a timeline. A new Studio Display is coming this year, as well, he says.
In addition to this round of M5 Macs, the second half of 2026 will be marked by the release of the redesigned, M6-based MacBook Pro, featuring a touchscreen OLED. Stay tuned to Macworld for the latest information on all of the upcoming releases.
Author: Roman Loyola, Senior Editor, Macworld
Roman is a Macworld Senior Editor with over 30 years of experience covering the tech industry, focusing on the Mac and other products in the Apple ecosystem. He is also the host of the Macworld Podcast. His career started at MacUser, where he received Apple certification as a repair technician (when Apple did that kind of thing). He's also worked for MacAddict, MacLife, and TechTV.