Apple is already working on the A19 Bionic and M5 series chips
While the A17 Bionic and M3 chips remain yet to be unveiled, Apple is already laying the groundwork for the semiconductors that will power its future platforms, even if their emergence is still years away. Recent Twitter user @_orangera1n suggested that Apple is immersed in the development of the A19 Bionic and M5 chip series, hinting that the design phase for the A18 Bionic and M4 series might be drawing to a close.
Following the typical cadence, the A19 Bionic and M5 series chips are slated for a 2025 release, implying at least another two-year wait. It’s understood that Apple has designated CPU IDs for these chips, such as 0x6033/0x6034, though the nuances of these alphanumeric codes remain inscrutable to the layperson. For Apple, preemptively forging new chips is a strategic maneuver to uphold its competitive edge.
At present, there seems to be a singular version of the A19 Bionic. In contrast, the M5 chip series will likely emulate its predecessors, spanning basic M5 versions as well as superior Pro, Max, and Ultra variants. The latter, more robust chips are destined for Apple’s premier Mac devices.
Although the A19 Bionic and M5 series chips are in the developmental phase, they are a considerable distance away from mass production. Speculation abounds that Apple might employ Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC)’s 2nm process for these novel chips. While Apple’s plans are contingent upon their design milestones, they are equally beholden to TSMC’s progress with this new fabrication technology.
Recent reports underscore TSMC’s efforts to consolidate its vanguard position in advanced chip manufacturing. The company has convened a group, christened “One Team,” to spearhead the 2nm process node’s research, prototyping, and mass production. This novel fabrication process is poised for deployment in 2025. This collective not only comprises research personnel but also integrates engineers from the preliminary production wafer fabrication plants.
