Apple has just introduced a new Mac Studio, featuring two robust yet somewhat puzzling chip options: the M4 Max and the latest high-performance M3 Ultra chip. When a publication inquired about this unusual combination, Apple suggested that an M4 Ultra chip might not be on the horizon.
Apple mentions that ‘not every chip generation’ will feature an Ultra
Andrew Cunningham from Ars Technica reports:
Upon being asked why the top-tier Mac Studio is equipped with an M3 Ultra chip rather than an M4 Ultra, Apple responded that not every chip generation would include an “Ultra” version. This marks, to my knowledge, the first instance of Apple publicly sharing such information.
Apple’s assertion that not every chip generation will produce an Ultra version does not directly mean that the M4 Ultra will be skipped.
Nonetheless, the timing and context of this assertion certainly suggest that possibility.
It was indeed surprising to see the new Mac Studio featuring an M3 Ultra alongside the M4 Max.
Some speculate that this adjustment might be a deliberate strategy to set the Mac Studio apart from Apple’s forthcoming M4 Mac Pro.
The logic follows: should the M4 Ultra be exclusive to the Mac Pro, it would create a more distinct rationale for both the Mac Pro and Mac Studio to coexist.
However, Apple’s recent announcement implies that this is not the intended strategy. Instead, it appears the M4 generation will not feature an Ultra chip at all.
If confirmed, this would mark the first family of chips since the inception of Apple Silicon that does not include an Ultra variant.
The M1, M2, and M3 families have all eventually launched an Ultra version. However, this streak may be coming to a close.
Do you see it as an issue if the M4 Ultra does not materialize? Share your thoughts in the comments.
