Shipping delays for high-end MacBook Pro configurations are suggesting that Apple may be preparing to release updated models sooner than expected. MacRumors reported that delivery times for certain M4 Max versions of both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros have slipped into mid-to-late February.

These delays, which affect the M4 Max versions of both sizes, contrast with the immediate availability of most Mac models. As of today, orders for these specific configurations are estimated to arrive between February 3 and February 24, depending on the chosen specifications. While many M4 Pro versions remain available for same-day shipping, adding features like a nano-texture display or upgrading RAM can extend the shipping time by approximately a week.

Historically, similar delays have preceded Apple product refreshes, indicating a potential slowdown or cessation of production for existing models in anticipation of an update. Last fall, Apple released an M5 upgrade for the low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro, leaving users awaiting updates to the higher-end M4 Pro and M4 Max versions. The current shipping delays suggest that the wait for M5 Pro and M5 Max models may soon be over.

Apple has not officially commented on the potential refresh. The company typically remains tight-lipped about upcoming product releases, leaving industry observers to rely on supply chain analysis and other indicators to predict future announcements.