Welcome to Rumor Replay, a weekly column on DMN providing a concise overview of the latest Apple product speculations along with insights and commentary. This week’s highlights include Apple’s M5 chip featuring AI capabilities, Tim Cook’s hints about the iPhone’s future, and the expanding game support for Vision Pro. Here’s what’s been trending in Apple rumors this week.
Apple’s M5 chip enters production with AI enhancements
While we await the launch of the M4 MacBook Air any moment now, Apple seems to have commenced mass production of the anticipated M5. An ETNews report indicates that the company is leveraging “new process technology to boost artificial intelligence (AI) performance.”
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The early start of M5 production is an intriguing development, especially since I haven’t scrutinized previous years’ timelines closely.
Currently, Apple is not projected to release its first M5 products until fall, aligning with rumors regarding new iPad Pro and MacBook Pro releases.
Last year, Apple surprised everyone by launching its M4 chip in the iPad Pro as early as May. If the M5 were to debut sometime this spring, it would be quite unexpected, though there are no strong signs pointing that way currently.
Given Apple’s track record of surprises, it’s possible they might do the same this time with the M5.
PlayStation VR2 controller compatibility likely on the way for visionOS 3
Mark Gurman has previously revealed that Apple is collaborating with Sony to integrate support for the PlayStation VR2 controller within Vision Pro. This week, he reaffirmed that the project remains in progress but is unlikely to launch until a “software update later this year.”
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Gurman’s earlier update suggested that an announcement regarding Apple-PlayStation compatibility was on the horizon. However, it now appears we will be waiting a while longer.
The recent report does not definitively state that visionOS 3 is the intended launch version, which leaves room for the possibility that visionOS 2.4 could introduce this new controller support. Nevertheless, the phrase ‘later this year’ seems to hint at a visionOS 3 release.
Tim Cook discusses the iPhone roadmap
This week was relatively quiet for Apple rumors, yet there was an intriguing note from CEO Tim Cook during Apple’s recent earnings call.
Cook hinted at exciting developments on the iPhone horizon, stating, “There’s a lot more to come, and I’m extremely optimistic about our product pipeline…there’s still plenty of innovation to be had in the smartphone space.”
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On its own, Cook’s statement could be perceived as mere corporate speak aimed at bolstering investor confidence in Apple’s flagship product.
However, as discussed here, there are numerous reports indicating that significant enhancements are on the way for the iPhone shortly. This fall’s iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a remarkably slim design, while next year’s foldable model (likely to be called iPhone 18 Fold) promises an even more innovative layout.
After years of similar aesthetics, the iPhone may finally be undergoing a much-needed transformation.
What are your thoughts on this week’s Apple rumors? Share your opinions in the comments!
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