Apple introduced its latest iPad Pro and iPad Air in May 2024 at a special event known as "Let Loose." This event showcased the pioneering M4 chipset in the iPad Pro, delivering exceptional performance to these new devices. In the wake of this launch, Apple subsequently upgraded its iMac, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro models with the M4 chip series and further broadened the lineup with the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.

According to Notebookcheck, many Apple enthusiasts anticipated the unveiling of a more robust M4 Extreme chip for the new Mac Pro models at WWDC 2025. However, recent reports indicate that Apple has likely shelved the development of the M4 Extreme.

Rumors suggest that Apple had experimented with the M4 Extreme, which was rumored to feature a 64-core CPU and a 160-core GPU, essentially combining two M4 Ultra chips, which themselves are each made up of two M4 Max chips. Some insiders speculate that Apple merely postponed this ambitious chip to prioritize server chip development. A similar scenario unfolded with the M2 Extreme, which never materialized as part of the Mac Pro lineup.

To address the varying performance demands across its product range, Apple plans to further expand the M4 series, with the M4 Ultra expected to be next in line. Both the Mac Pro and Mac Studio are slated to feature this chip. With the advanced cooling solutions in these Mac models, Apple may adjust the chips to operate at higher frequencies, delivering enhanced single-core and multi-core performance.