Apple Reported to be Testing New M2 Chip With Nine Mac Models

Apple is reportedly testing its unreleased M2 silicon on nine Mac models. As the lead-up to its imminent launch continues, it’s said that four different variants of the M2 chip are also being tested.

Apple has remained fairly quiet on its next-generation chipset. However, Bloomberg reports that the company is actively testing the M2 chip on a number of new Mac models. It’s said that Apple has been testing the new Mac models using third-party apps from the App Store. The developer logs of each app have helped pull the curtain back on the company’s current testing phase.

Perhaps the most notable model being tested currently is a MacBook Air with an M2 chip. The report states this model offers eight CPU cores and 10 cores for graphics, which is an upgrade from the eight cores the current model offers. It’s been previously reported a successor to the 2020 MacBook Air with the M2 chip is expected in late 2022. It’s said this model will feature a substantial redesign with a thinner body, additional ports, and may see the return of the MagSafe charger.

In addition, other models being tested are said to be multiple Mac mini SKUs powered by an M2 and an M2 Pro chip. An n entry-level M2 MacBook Pro with roughly the same specs and design as the aforementioned MacBook Air is also said to be tested by the company.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman also claims that new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBooks, each featuring 64GB of memory powered and being tested with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. Gurman states that the M2 Max sports 12 CPU cores and 38 graphics cores.

Finally, Gurman says that there’s the new Mac Pro being tested and powered by the M1 Ultra’s successor.

Gurman leaves off by stating that he believes there’s no guarantee Apple will launch every new Mac model that’s being tested. Of the nine, Gurman is confident that the MacBook Air, entry-level MacBook Pro, and Mac minis will be available later this year.