In a significant development for tech enthusiasts and professionals, Apple appears to be secretly developing a powerful new iMac powered by its upcoming top-tier silicon. Internal software files discovered by the publication MacRumors have revealed references to an unreleased iMac model running on the unannounced M5 Max chip. This discovery strongly suggests that Apple is planning to resurrect its high-end, all-in-one professional desktop computer, a category it left behind after discontinuing the original iMac Pro back in 2021.
The Leak: Code Points to a Powerful Comeback
The crucial information was found within kernel debug kit files used by Apple's own engineers. These files contained details of a device with the internal identifier J833c and a platform code of H17C. This code is linked to the "Sotra C" codename, which is known to correspond to the M5 Max processor. While the leak confirms the chip and model's existence in testing, it offers no specifics about the display size. This leaves a key question unanswered: will Apple stick with the original iMac Pro's 27-inch 5K display or opt for a larger screen to compete in today's market?
It is important to note a caveat from MacRumors: the debug software also referenced other test-only devices, like iPad minis running tvOS. This means the M5 Max iMac might still be an internal prototype and could potentially never see a commercial release. However, the finding aligns with previous reports from renowned Apple analysts. Both Ming-Chi Kuo and Mark Gurman of Bloomberg have separately indicated that Apple was working on a larger, more professional iMac, lending considerable credibility to this latest leak.
Filling the Void: A Strategic Shift for Apple
The original iMac Pro was launched in 2017 as a powerhouse for creative professionals. It featured an Intel Xeon processor and started at a premium price of $5,000. Despite initial excitement, the machine struggled to carve out a sustainable market and was quietly discontinued after just three years without any hardware updates. Since then, Apple has directed its professional users towards the Mac Studio, a powerful desktop computer that requires a separate external monitor.
This modular approach solves a major drawback of all-in-one computers: the need to replace a perfectly good display when only the internal processing components need an upgrade. The development of a new pro iMac, therefore, signals a potential strategic shift. It suggests Apple sees renewed value in offering an integrated, high-performance solution for users who prefer the simplicity and sleek design of an all-in-one system.
Powering Demanding Workflows
While the M5 Max chip remains officially under wraps, its capabilities can be inferred from its predecessor. The M4 Max chip boasts 16 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores, delivering performance speeds reportedly up to 2.2 times faster than the M1 Max. The M5 Max is expected to push these boundaries even further.
Such immense processing power is tailor-made for professionals engaged in resource-intensive tasks. This includes 3D rendering, high-resolution video editing, complex music production, and AI model development. The return of a pro-level iMac would give these users a powerful, integrated desktop option from Apple for the first time in years. Industry whispers suggest the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are slated for a debut in 2026, which could be the launch window for this rumoured device.
The leak has undoubtedly sparked excitement within the creative and developer communities. If Apple proceeds with the launch, the M5 Max iMac could redefine the high-end all-in-one desktop segment, combining the company's design ethos with its groundbreaking silicon performance. For now, the tech world will be watching closely for any official hint from Cupertino.
