Apple has released the release candidate (RC) versions of iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 to developers. According to reports, the code in this update offers early hints about the company’s next-generation silicon. It is said that the iOS 26.3 RC includes references to two unreleased chips from Apple’s upcoming M5 series—the M5 Max and the M5 Ultra.
These details suggest that Apple is preparing to introduce new Mac devices powered by M5-series processors alongside the public rollout of macOS 26.3. The launch phase could include updated MacBook Pro models as well as a refreshed Mac Studio.
Clues About New M5 Chips Found in Code
X (formerly Twitter) user Nicolás Álvarez reportedly discovered references to the unreleased M5 chips within the iOS 26.3 RC, information that was later shared by MacRumors. The beta code reportedly mentions two new system-on-chip (SoC) identifiers—T6051 and T6052—linked to platform names H17C and H17D. The number “17” in these internal labels is believed to indicate the M5 chip generation.
Based on Apple’s past naming conventions, H17C is thought to represent the M5 Max chip, while H17D likely points to the more powerful M5 Ultra. In previous generations, Apple has used the letter “C” for Max variants and “D” for Ultra chips, with “S” typically reserved for Pro models.
No Reference to M5 Pro Yet
Interestingly, the code does not show any mention of identifiers such as T6050 or H17S, which are usually associated with the M5 Pro chip. This absence has fueled speculation that Apple may have changed its internal naming system or that the M5 Pro has not yet been added to the codebase.
Expected Launch Timeline
Apple is expected to unveil new MacBook Pro models powered by M5-series chips alongside macOS 26.3. These devices are rumored to launch in February or March 2026. In addition, Apple is said to be working on a new Mac Studio featuring the M5 Ultra processor.
Meanwhile, the stable versions of iOS 26.3 and macOS 26.3 are expected to roll out to eligible iPhone and Mac devices later this month. The update is said to improve RCS messaging with Android devices and may be released alongside iPadOS 26.3, watchOS 26.3, and tvOS 26.3.
