Apple may introduce three M3 series chips in Scary Fast event: M3, M3 Pro and M3 Max

Previously, Apple had officially announced its second autumn product launch for 2023, themed “Scary Fast,” scheduled for 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday, October 30, 2023. Many speculate that Apple may unveil new Mac products and the M3 chip.

According to Bloomberg, Apple will introduce new MacBook Pro and iMac models powered by the M3 series of processors during this launch. Additionally, the M3 series will not merely consist of the base M3 but will also feature the M3 Pro and M3 Max. Assuming these reports are accurate, given that the M2 Pro and M2 Max were released just in January of the same year, such a rapid iteration and upgrade pace from Apple is unexpectedly swift.

All models in the M3 series are anticipated to utilize TSMC’s 3nm manufacturing process to deliver enhanced performance and efficiency. Rumors suggest that both the M3 and M2 will have up to 8 cores, comprised of 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, and a GPU with up to 10 cores, supporting a maximum of 24GB unified memory. As iterative products, notable improvements are expected. Allegedly, Apple has tested several versions of the M3 Pro, with the CPU section featuring 12 cores, including either 8 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores or a 6-6 split. The GPU section boasts 18 cores. Similarly, various versions of the M3 Max have been tested, with the CPU supporting up to 16 cores, including 12 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, and a GPU with up to 40 cores — both specifications surpassing the M2 Max (12 CPU cores + 38 GPU cores).

Analysts believe that one reason Apple is swiftly rolling out new chip models is the underwhelming sales performance of Mac models featuring the M2 chip. A more substantial boost in performance and features might elevate sales. Additionally, Apple might also introduce upgraded MacBook Air and iPad models.