Apple is reportedly in the process of testing its next-generation chip, the M3 Max, according to information shared by Bloomberg’s reliable source, Mark Gurman. This advanced Apple silicon chip is poised to succeed the M2 Max and is being earmarked for integration into upcoming MacBook Pro models slated for release in the coming year.
Early indications of the M3 Max’s existence were uncovered by a third-party Mac developer who stumbled upon the chip’s presence in test logs. As per the findings, the M3 Max is anticipated to feature an impressive 40-core GPU and a robust 16-core CPU. The CPU configuration will comprise 12 high-performance cores complemented by four energy-efficient cores. This is a significant upgrade compared to the current M2 Max chip, which boasts a 12-core CPU and a 38-core GPU. The initial test machine also showcased 48GB of memory, though higher memory configurations may likely be available since the existing MacBook Pro supports up to 96GB of memory.
One of the most noteworthy advancements that the M3 Max is expected to bring is its transition to a cutting-edge 3-nanometer manufacturing process. This leap in process technology is projected to deliver notable gains in both speed and energy efficiency when compared to the M2 Max chip. The testing phase for the M3 Max chip is being conducted on a yet-to-be-released high-end MacBook Pro, internally referred to as “J514.”
The M3 Max chip is poised to stand as the flagship offering among a trio that includes the M3 and the M3 Pro variants. The M3 chip is predicted to sport an 8-core CPU coupled with up to a 10-core GPU, while the M3 Pro variant is projected to take it up a notch with a 12-core CPU and an 18-core GPU.
The initial wave of M3 Macs is expected to hit the market in October, focusing primarily on models powered by the standard M3 chip, such as the 13-inch MacBook Pro and various MacBook Air models. However, the spotlight is expected to shift to the 2024 release of the 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, which will feature the highly anticipated M3 Max chip. This advancement is anticipated to redefine performance standards in the MacBook Pro lineup, further solidifying Apple’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of innovation in the world of computing.
