Apple typically keeps its product plans under wraps, but hints tend to slip through the cracks. This week, we’ve seen a couple of interesting leaks about upcoming devices. A pre-release build of iOS 26 surfaced, along with some files related to a kernel debug kit, both reported by MacRumors.
Most of these leaks point to upgrades of existing devices. We can expect a new Apple TV, an updated HomePod mini, new AirTags and AirPods, an M4 iPad Air, and a 12th-generation iPad to replace the A16 version. Plus, there’s talk of next-generation iPhones, including models 17e and 18, along with a foldable option. Apple may also refresh its Macs with M5 updates for the MacBook Air, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and various MacBook Pros.
One standout revelation is an upcoming high-end iMac powered by an M5 Max chip. This model, identified as J833c, is built on a platform referred to as H17C, suggesting a performance upgrade. The M5 Max chip is expected to outperform the standard M5 and M5 Pro, making it one of Apple’s fastest processors yet.
This could be the long-awaited replacement for the discontinued 27-inch iMac, which was dropped in 2022 without a direct successor. The M5 Max may also serve as a replacement for the iMac Pro, which was launched back in 2017 but has not seen an update since.
The current M4 Max chip boasts 14 to 16 CPU cores, 32 to 40 GPU cores, and up to 128GB of unified memory. We can expect the M5 Max to either match or surpass these specifications. Since the Max chips fit into existing MacBook Pros, integrating one into an all-in-one desktop shouldn’t pose any challenges.
Experts suggest that users are eager for these updates, especially with the growing demand for powerful, versatile computers. As remote work becomes more common, people are looking for better performance and features in their devices. The upcoming iMac could cater to this trend, appealing to creative professionals and power users alike.
Recent surveys show that 72% of consumers plan to upgrade their devices within the next year, highlighting a significant market for Apple’s new offerings. Social media reactions indicate excitement about the rumored iMac, with many users sharing their anticipation on platforms like Twitter and Reddit.
For those interested in keeping tabs on these developments, MacRumors offers coverage on Apple’s latest products and software leaks.
