Apple is reportedly planning to launch its most powerful chipset yet, the M4 Ultra, with the updated Mac Studio in the first half of 2025.
However, the Mac Pro, Apple’s flagship workstation, may not feature the same SoC, according to recent reports.
M4 Ultra to Power the Mac Studio
The M4 Ultra will reportedly debut alongside the M4 Max in the updated Mac Studio. The M4 Max, which has already impressed with its performance, features 16 CPU cores and delivers top-tier single-core results for Apple Silicon.
The M4 Ultra is expected to push boundaries even further, offering:
- 32 CPU cores, potentially 50% faster than the M4 Max in benchmarks.
- 80 GPU cores, making it a powerhouse for graphics-intensive tasks.
These specifications position the Mac Studio as a high-performance machine for professionals needing cutting-edge capabilities.
Mac Pro to Feature a Different SoC
Interestingly, reports suggest the Mac Pro will not include the M4 Ultra. Instead, it may feature a new and distinct chipset, yet to be revealed. This move could be Apple’s strategy to create a meaningful distinction between the Mac Studio and Mac Pro.
Previously, the M2 Ultra Mac Studio offered nearly identical performance to the Mac Pro but at a significantly lower price point. This pricing gap led many customers to favor the Mac Studio over the Mac Pro, which starts at $3,000 more.
What to Expect from the M4 Ultra
Early leaks indicate the M4 Ultra could outperform AMD’s latest Ryzen 9 9950X in multi-core benchmarks, doubling its score. Its 80-core GPU may also set new standards for Apple Silicon, promising improved framerates in demanding applications and gaming.
The Future of Apple’s Workstations
While the Mac Studio is set to receive the M4 Ultra, the Mac Pro’s unique SoC could redefine its role in Apple’s lineup. More details about the new chipset and Apple’s plans for its workstations are expected in the coming months.
Stay tuned for updates as Apple prepares to unveil the M4 Ultra and its next-generation Macs.
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