M4 MacBook Pro update looms as supply chain continues to ramp up

The supply chain is continuing to ramp up new Mac production, with another report indicating M4 Pro and Max MacBook Pro upgrades are being prepared for a fall release.

Apple's supply chain is hard at work assembling hardware that Apple will be introducing in a short few weeks. While the main attention is on the iPhone 16, there's also the expectation of new MacBook Pros before the end of the year.

According to a Wednesday DigiTimes report, the supply chain is gradually ramping up, despite having some slight issues. Market destocking adjustments affected the component supply chain, reducing overall production in the peak season.

Supply chain queries by the report insist the usual production ramp will continue in August and run into the fourth quarter. This is slightly later than usual, but still fairly typical for Apple's assembly partners' schedules.

The report indicates that this includes displays that will be used in products like the 14-inch MacBook Pro and the 16-inch MacBook Pro. This also includes models bearing the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.

Rumors have frequently promoted the idea that the MacBook Pro updates will happen late in 2024. This pretty much lines up with typical expectations for Apple's launches, which include the usual appearance of new Macs in an October event, if not the September one.

DigiTimes usually fares well when it comes to supply chain news stories. WIth the rumor mill and the typical Apple schedule in mind, this seems to be a very plausible story.

On August 15, DSCC CEO Ross Young posted that display panel shipments started in July and August for the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, with a view to a Q4 launch.

Other Macs that may also get an update include the Mac mini and the iMac. The MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro are expected to get their updates in 2025.