Apple is wasting no time and is already preparing the future of its in-house processors. While M4 chips are just starting to equip the latest Macs, the Cupertino company has just placed an order with TSMC for the production of future M5 chips, according to The Elec. A development which announces a promising new generation for the end of 2025.
Innovative architecture despite compromises
The M5 chip will be engraved in 3 nanometers, cutting-edge technology but not the most advanced available from TSMC. Apple has in fact chosen not to opt for the 2nm process, mainly for cost reasons. Despite this compromise, the M5 will bring major innovations, notably thanks to the adoption of System on Integrated Chip (SoIC) technology.
This 3D stacking approach represents a significant advancement over traditional 2D designs, with improved thermal management and reduced electrical leakage. Apple has also strengthened its collaboration with TSMC on this technology, which also integrates thermoplastic carbon fiber composites. The first production tests would have already started last July.
Gradual deployment from the end of 2025
What is particularly interesting about this M5 chip is its dual-use potential. According to some sources, Apple plans to use it not only in its consumer devices, but also in its AI server infrastructure. This strategy would strengthen the artificial intelligence capabilities of both devices and the brand’s cloud services.
This new generation of processors should therefore mark an important step in the evolution of the Apple Silicon architecture, confirming the success of the transition initiated in 2020 with the abandonment of Intel processors. The partnership with TSMC, which remains the exclusive manufacturer of Apple chips, is once again proving crucial to maintaining the technological lead of the Apple brand.
