M6 Mac release schedule: Here’s when to expect new Macs

Apple next-generation M6 chip arrived last week in the new Mac mini. But several more products will get M6 upgrades soon. Here’s the rumored release schedule for M6 Macs—plus the M6 iPad Pro. This fall: M6 MacBook Pro, M6 iMac This fall, likely in October or early November, Apple is rumored to launch two new M6 Macs: MacBook Pro iMac The MacBook Pro will be only the 14-inch base model. Per Mark Gurman, Apple is skipping Pro and Max versions of the M6 chip. As a result, only the entry MacBook Pro will get M6 while the next Pro-level chips coming will be M7 Pro and M7 Max in 2027. Apple’s new iMac isn’t expected to change much beyond the M6 chip. The only other rumored upgrade is a fresh slate of colors. But the jump from M4 to M6 should make the new model a worthy update nonetheless. Notably absent from this list is the rumored touchscreen MacBook Pro / Ultra. It’s expected to launch soon too, but will use M5 Pro and M5 Max chips instead of the M6. Early 2027: M6 MacBook Air, M6 iPad Pro After this fall, the next products rumored to get M6 upgrades are: MacBook Air iPad Pro A new M6 MacBook Air is expected to launch in early 2027. Anytime in the February-April window is possible, but based on Apple’s history, March is a safe bet. Other than a chip upgrade, there are minimal rumors about the new MacBook Air. It should retain the same design as the M5 model. And reporting dates an OLED upgrade as coming no sooner than 2028, so the display will likely be unchanged too. Apple last updated the iPad Pro in fall 2025, when it got the M5 chip. Rumors point to a spring 2027 update coming, meaning the product will follow its typical 18-month upgrade cycle. Beyond getting the M6 chip, Apple’s new iPad Pro is expected to add a vapor chamber for cooling. That should boost sustained performance in the ultra-thin device. One potential M6 benefit for both the MacBook Air and iPad Pro is that it could boost battery life. Apple says the M6’s 2-nanometer process brings “a major leap in performance and power efficiency.” Are you planning to upgrade to any of these new M6 products? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments. *Buy Mac with 15% discount from Apple refurbished Best Mac and iPad accessories 100W USB-C fast charging power adapter tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style Twelve South aluminum laptop stand for MacBooks Anker Docking Station USB-C with Ethernet, HDMI, SD, more Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.