Apple Expected to Launch M6 Chip This Year, Possibly Skipping Pro, Max, and Ultra Models

Apple is projected to release its next-generation M6 chip this year, according to IT media outlet nine.to.five.mic. The report suggests Apple may launch only the base M6 model, omitting Pro, Max, and Ultra variants. The M6 is expected to improve memory architecture, increasing memory bandwidth from 153 GB/s in M5 to 200 GB/s, which could enhance on-device AI performance. Overall performance improvements include enhanced video encoding/decoding, a redesigned GPU supporting up to 12 cores (compared to M5's 10), and potential upgrades for gaming, video rendering, and GPU-accelerated apps. This marks a strategic shift from previous generations, which included Pro, Max, and Ultra models. The M7 chip, expected in 2027, may offer even greater AI performance improvements with 240 GB/s memory bandwidth.