Expectations are growing that Apple will significantly expand its Mac product range for the remainder of this year, drawing attention to its year-end new product strategy.

According to IT outlet 9to5Mac on April 17, Apple has already unveiled some new Mac products this year and may introduce at least 4 more Mac models by the end of the year. That could bring this year’s total Mac launch lineup to as many as 5 models.

First, the Mac Studio, a professional desktop, is likely to see a new model featuring M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. With the current model updated about a year ago, the focus this time is expected to be on performance improvements without changes to the external design. With demand for artificial intelligence computing surging, the M5 Ultra model is expected to be central.

The all-in-one desktop iMac is also expected to be refreshed based on the M5 chip. About 18 months have passed since the current M4 model was released, and the possibility of changes to the color lineup is being discussed alongside performance improvements.

The entry-level desktop Mac mini is expected to be updated with two chip options, the M5 and M5 Pro. Design changes are expected to be limited, but demand is expected to continue through performance improvements while maintaining price competitiveness. The outlet described the Mac mini as still "the cheapest Mac you can buy" and highlighted price competitiveness as a strength.

The biggest changes are likely to appear in the laptop lineup. Next-generation MacBook Pro models could arrive with the M6 chip and a fully redesigned form factor. A thinner and lighter design, an OLED display, the introduction of a touchscreen and the use of a Dynamic Island have been mentioned, and it has been assessed as a major update that could significantly change the user experience across the Mac lineup.

The new product roadmap shows Apple focusing on boosting chip performance in its desktop lineup while also pursuing design and interface innovation centered on the MacBook Pro. As AI spreads and demand grows for high-performance computing, the role of desktop products such as the Mac Studio and Mac mini is also expected to become more important.

Separately, Mac accessories introduced include the AirPods Pro 3, with its price cut to $199 from a launch price of $249, as well as a 100W USB-C power adapter, a tomtoc protective MacBook sleeve, a Twelve South aluminum laptop stand and an Anker USB-C docking station.