Apple might not launch M3-powered MacBooks this year. The claim comes from reputed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
The TF International Securities analyst did not provide more reason behind this. But given his accurate track record, it’s possible M3 MacBooks might not debut in 2023.
No M3 MacBooks to launch this year
Kuo’s prediction contradicts a Bloomberg report claiming the M3-based 13-inch MacBook Air and Pro will debut in fall 2023. While the analyst’s statement is vague, it does not rule out the possibility of M3 desktop Macs launching this year.
看起來到今年年底前，Apple應該都不會發售新款的MacBook (配備M3系列處理器) 機型了
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It seems that Apple will not launch new MacBook models (equipped with M3 series processors) before the end of this year.— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) September 8, 2023
Apple appears to operate on an 18-month refresh cycle for its M3 chips. For reference, the M2 chip debuted with the 13-inch MacBook Air and Pro in June 2022. And the first Apple silicon debuted in October 2020 inside the same machines.
Going by this timeframe, the M3 SoC should launch in October this year. That’s also when Apple typically holds a Mac-focused event. But if Kuo’s predictions are correct, an October event from Apple seems unlikely this year.
Could an M3 iMac debut this year?
There have been murmurs of M3 iMac debuting in the second half of 2023. The 24-inch M1 iMac, which debuted in spring 2021, desperately needs an update. So, it could be a great launch vehicle for the more efficient M3 SoC.
More powerful Macs with M3 Pro, Ultra, and Max chips are not expected to arrive until 2024.
Based on TSMC’s 3nm node, Apple’s next-gen SoC could bring a major leap in performance and efficiency. Supplies appear severely limited, which is why Apple has booked TSMC’s entire 3nm output. The A17 Bionic chip powering the iPhone 15 Pro series is also fabricated on the 3nm node. It should also bring a notable bump in performance and efficiency compared to its predecessor.
