Apple tests new high-end Macs with M2 Max and unveiling M2 Ultra chipset ahead of WWDC 2023

The technology giant has preparations underway for the introduction of two upcoming Mac models, internally referred to as Mac 14,13 and Mac 14,14. These new models will be powered by the M2 Max processor, which was announced in January, along with an unrevealed M2 Ultra chip. The M2 Ultra chip is expected to replace the current M1 Ultra model found in the Mac Studio, a premium desktop computer that was announced in March 2022.

As the computer industry experiences a slow period, Apple is aiming to revamp its Mac lineup in order to captivate consumers. High-performance desktop models continue to play a crucial role in Apple’s appeal to professional users, including graphic designers and video editors. With the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) just around the corner, Apple recognizes the significance of these machines for developers who rely on them to create applications.

Apple, based in Cupertino, California, chose not to provide any comments regarding the matter. One of the desktop computers undergoing testing is equipped with an M2 Max processor, consisting of eight high-performance cores for handling intensive tasks, along with four efficiency cores and 30 graphics cores. These specifications mirror those found in the MacBook Pro featuring the M2 Max. Additionally, this specific machine boasts a memory capacity of 96 gigabytes and operates on macOS 13.4, the latest version of the Mac operating system released earlier this month.

The company is currently testing a second machine that contains an undisclosed chip called the M2 Ultra. This chip, which features 24 processing cores, offers twice the performance compared to the M2 Max model. It consists of 16 high-performance cores, eight efficiency cores, and 60 graphics cores. Different configurations of the machine are being tested, including those with 64GB, 128GB, and 192GB of memory.

According to a report by Bloomberg, the M2 Ultra chip will introduce a more potent variant, potentially featuring up to 76 graphics cores. This represents a doubling of the maximum 38-core capacity seen in the existing M2 Max chip.

The M2 Ultra chip was originally intended for a future iteration of Apple’s high-end Mac Pro desktop computer. Currently, the Mac Pro still utilizes Intel Corp. chips, which is a departure from Apple’s three-year initiative to transition to their own processors in their computer lineup. Apple has not provided specific details regarding the release date of a new Mac Pro, simply stating over a year ago that an updated model would be introduced “another day.”

Reportedly, the American technology giant has assigned the label “Mac 14,8” to the upcoming Mac Pro equipped with their in-house chips. This indicates that the current desktops being tested are distinct machines, potentially representing new iterations of the Mac Studio. The Mac Studio is currently available in M1 Max and M1 Ultra configurations.

In April, Bloomberg disclosed that Apple is working on two forthcoming updates for the Mac Studio. Additionally, Apple has been in the process of developing a 15-inch variant of the MacBook Air, as well as future versions of the 13-inch MacBook Air and the 15-inch model, featuring a 3-nanometer M3 processor. Furthermore, Apple has plans for a budget-friendly 13-inch MacBook Pro and an iMac equipped with the next-generation chip.

(With inputs from Bloomberg)

Updated: 02 Jun 2023, 12:18 PM IST