Internal software leaks from Apple engineers have reportedly confirmed that the company is actively testing a high-end iMac Pro featuring the unreleased M5 Max chip.
The data, first reported by MacRumors, was discovered in kernel debug kit files that map unreleased hardware identifiers to upcoming silicon. Specifically, an iMac with the identifier J833c is linked to platform H17C, which corresponds to the internal codename “Sotra C”—the designation for the M5 Max.
This leak provides evidence for a high-end iMac revival, a product that has been absent from the lineup since the Intel-based iMac Pro was discontinued in 2021.
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Expert Backing: These findings align with previous reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who have long maintained that a larger, pro-focused iMac remains on Apple’s roadmap.
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Performance Potential: While screen size remains unconfirmed, the use of “Max” series silicon suggests a machine built for heavy workloads like 3D rendering and professional video editing.
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The debug files also outlined a broader roadmap for the next two years of Mac hardware:
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MacBook Pro: Lists 14-inch and 16-inch models with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, plus early references to future M6 iterations.
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Mac mini & MacBook Air: New versions featuring the base M5 chip are expected for both lines.
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Mac Studio: High-performance configurations with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips are also in development.
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Low-Cost MacBook: The files mention a new model (J700) powered by an A18 Pro chip, supporting rumors of a budget laptop designed to compete with Chromebooks.
While the presence of these codenames confirms development, it is possible some entries represent internal test devices that may not see a public release.
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