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Apple appears to be testing a new iMac Pro powered by an M5 Max-class chip alongside a next-generation iPad mini that could run on an A20 Pro processor. Leaks from internal kernel debug files point to a broader roadmap of Mac and iPad upgrades in the coming years.
Inside the lab: clues from Apple’s kernel debug kit
Researchers digging through Apple’s kernel debug kit found references to an iMac Pro with the internal ID J833c on a platform labeled H17C. The platform is tied to the codename "Sotra C," which industry sources believe corresponds to a chip Apple will call M5 Max. While internal names can sometimes be placeholders used only for testing, the presence of these identifiers suggests Apple is actively evaluating a higher-end iMac aimed at professionals.
What the new iPad mini might bring
Alongside the iMac clues, the same files reference a next-gen iPad mini that looks set to use an A20 Pro chip. Earlier rumors mentioned an A19 Pro, but the debug data points to the newer A20 Pro instead. Expect upgrades beyond raw CPU power: reports indicate an OLED display, improved water resistance, and a revamped speaker system that uses haptic vibration technology for richer audio feedback.
The A20 Pro is rumored to be manufactured by TSMC on an advanced 2-nanometer process and may also power the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro. That chip rollout is not expected immediately; industry timelines currently place A20 Pro introductions around 2026.
More Macs on the horizon: a quick roadmap
The debug files also list a wide range of future Mac configurations. Highlights include:
- MacBook Pro 14" and 16" models with M5 Pro and M5 Max options
- A 14" MacBook Pro testing M6 silicon, plus 14" and 16" models with M6 Pro
- New MacBook Air 13" and 15" models powered by M5 chips
- Mac mini variants with M5 and M5 Pro
- Mac Studio configurations using M5 Max and a potential M5 Ultra
- An entry-level MacBook rumored to use an A18 Pro chip, suggesting a more affordable ARM-based laptop
Analysts such as Ming-Chi Kuo and journalists including Mark Gurman have previously signaled that Apple is working on a larger iMac Pro for professional users, which aligns with the new kernel-level hints.
Why this matters
If these files reflect actual product plans, Apple’s roadmap is pointing to a significant refresh across both Macs and iPads: more powerful M-series silicon for desktops and laptops, and next-gen A-series chips for mobile devices. For creatives and pros who rely on desktop horsepower, an iMac Pro with an M5 Max could be a notable upgrade. For mobile users, a brighter OLED iPad mini with advanced audio and an A20 Pro under the hood would make the compact tablet even more compelling.
Leaks like these don’t guarantee release dates, but they do offer a rare peek into Apple’s development pipeline and where the company might focus performance and feature gains in the next few years.
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