Apple accelerates: The iPad Pro M5 and Vision Pro 2 are on the way, the strategy to dominate the AI race
As Apple enthusiasts and industry analysts eagerly await the next wave of innovations from Cupertino, new rumors suggest that the first products featuring the M5 chip are about to be launched.
According to a report from 9to5Mac, the iPad Pro M5 and a new version of the Vision Pro headset could debut within the next few weeks, marking a significant evolution for Apple’s tablet and mixed-reality lines.
M5 Chip: N3P Process and Enhanced AI Integration
Early technical information suggests that the Apple M5 chip will utilize TSMC’s optimized N3P process, promising notable gains in performance and energy efficiency.
Mass production is reportedly already underway, and the first devices are expected to arrive this fall.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo confirms on X that the various variants — M5 Pro, M5 Max, and M5 Ultra — will be rolled out gradually through 2026.
These chips are anticipated to deliver significant boosts to power for AI-related tasks, neural computing, and graphics rendering, solidifying Apple’s position in the high-end computing arena.
A Strategy to Compete Against Rivals
With documents from the FCC and unusual delivery timelines observed on certain products, signs of a massive hardware refresh are multiplying. Apple appears to be ramping up its efforts in the AI sector while Qualcomm and Intel are intensifying their own initiatives with optimized architectures.
Industry observers suggest that the company is also preparing an upgrade for the MacBook Pro slated for early 2026, incorporating the M5 chips to provide a cohesive platform across Mac, iPad, and Vision Pro.
The “iPhone Fold”: Apple Finally Enters the Foldable Market
Alongside the M5 range, rumors surrounding Apple’s first foldable iPhone are gaining momentum. Dubbed the iPhone Fold, the device could be revealed as early as 2026 and may showcase a 7.9-inch internal display, a reinforced chassis, and a five-sensor camera system.
Apple aims for a book-style format, similar to the Galaxy Z Fold, but with a more premium approach:
- in-house cellular modem,
- return of Touch ID integrated into the display,
- compatibility with Apple Intelligence, the brand’s new AI suite.
Current prototypes reportedly incorporate next-gen flexible displays sourced from Samsung Display, while Apple is addressing the durability challenges unique to this format.
Other M5 Products in Development
In addition to iPads and MacBooks, Apple may extend the M5 chip to more devices within its ecosystem:
- Updated Mac mini and iMac,
- an Apple TV featuring the A17 Pro chip,
- and a second-generation AirTag offering enhanced location tracking.
Some sources indicate that these announcements could be consolidated during a fall event, reinforcing the integration between the brand’s home and professional products.
A Bet on AI and Augmented Reality
This strategy reflects Apple’s intent to reinvent itself in a saturated market as iPhone sales slow. According to TrendForce, the M5 ecosystem is expected to expand to new MacBook Pros and even experimental products like Apple Glasses, leveraging onboard AI to reduce energy consumption.
A Strategic Transition for Apple
In light of the growing importance of AI and augmented reality, Apple is clearly betting on its proprietary silicon to maintain its technological edge.
This accelerated timeline — with multiple M5 products and a foldable iPhone on the horizon — may disrupt suppliers and developers but demonstrates an aggressive strategy to consolidate its ecosystem.
The first announcements could come as soon as next week, according to Macworld, marking the beginning of a new era for Apple, where power, AI, and new formats converge to redefine its flagship products.
