The M5 Ultra Mac Studio, internally codenamed J246, is set to replace the current M3 Ultra model that was introduced in March 2025 alongside the M4 Max.
The implementation of the M3 Ultra was a surprise, as conventional wisdom suggested that Apple would ship the current M4 Ultra generation instead.
The decision to use the M3 Ultra was influenced by chip availability, the timing of new production methods, and Apple's chip naming procedures.
According to recent reports, Apple is also working on an AI server using M5 Ultra chips, which are likely intended for internal use.
The development of AI features for Apple's chips was made possible by the company's experience with the cancelled Apple Car project.
As Apple readies the M5 Ultra, it is also working on the M7 Ultra, which will support up to 1.5TB of RAM, a significant increase over the M3 Ultra's 512GB maximum.
However, it remains to be seen whether the public will be able to purchase the M7 Ultra, as its availability will depend on the state of the RAM market.
The M7 Ultra is not expected to arrive until 2029, making it difficult to predict its specifications.
Apple is also working on 1.4nm chips, including the M8, which could arrive in 2028.
Details on whether these future chips will make their way into the Mac Studio have not been disclosed.
