If you’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of one of Apple’s most anticipated M3 MacBook, equipped with highly efficient M3 chips, you may have to wait longer than initially anticipated. Recent reports suggest these new laptops might not debut until the next year. This surprising revelation contradicts earlier speculations that hinted at an imminent release.
The information stems from a report by DigiTimes, a respected news outlet renowned for its technology insights. The report forecasts laptop shipments for the next five years. According to Apple, the US brand vendor plans to transition to CPUs built by a 3nm node at TSMC for performance upgrading in 2024, and it expects to experience a significant decline in shipments in 2023.
In simpler terms, Apple is projecting a decrease in MacBook sales for this year because they have no plans to introduce new laptops until 2024, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the hopes of Mac enthusiasts yearning for an upgrade.
This revelation challenges what was previously suggested by prominent leakers and analysts, making it a disheartening situation for those eagerly anticipating a new MacBook.
Muddying the Waters
Apple is launching a new generation of chips produced through a cutting-edge 3nm process by TSMC, a renowned semiconductor manufacturer. This process promises superior performance and efficiency compared to the existing 5nm M2 chips in the current MacBook lineup.
The delay in releasing MacBooks equipped with these new chips is undoubtedly disappointing. Although the M2 chip is an impressive technology, it did not bring about the revolutionary performance leap some had anticipated. If the M3 chip lives up to expectations, it could potentially redefine the performance standards for Apple’s portable Macs.
Conflicting Reports
Notably, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman had previously hinted at an October 2023 release for new Macs featuring M3 chips. This was expected to include the 13-inch MacBook Pro, 13-inch MacBook Air, and the 24-inch iMac. MacRumors also echoed the possibility of a new Mac launch. However, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo countered these claims by stating that no new MacBooks would surface before 2024, leaving only the iMac in question.
DigiTimes’ recent report has further complicated the situation. With no Apple event expected in October, any M3 Macbook announcements would likely be made through press releases. As things stand, the waters have been significantly muddied, and for those eager for an upgrade, patience may be the best course of action.
