Apple M5 MacBook Air: 13-Inch and 15-Inch Models to Include In-House Wi-Fi Chip and Integrated Bluetooth, According to Leaked Code

Apple’s transition towards in-house wireless chips commenced with the introduction of the C1 chip in the iPhone 16e. The company aims to expand this innovative approach across its entire iPhone 17 lineup, demonstrating its commitment to developing custom Wi-Fi technology. However, Apple’s ambitions extend beyond smartphones—leaked code suggests that the same in-house wireless chip is expected to debut in the M5 MacBook Air models next year. This strategic move underscores Apple’s intention to minimize reliance on third-party manufacturers like Broadcom and Qualcomm.

Uncertainty Surrounding Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Integration in M5 MacBook Air

Apple’s approach for its wireless technology focuses on efficiency and space optimization. Reports from 2023 highlighted the company’s plan to merge Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity into a single package, aiming to maximize interior space while enhancing power efficiency. Currently, the separate components on the logic board contribute to higher production costs and eliminate the potential benefits of such integration. The anticipated iPhone 17 launch is expected to mark the initial steps toward this aspiration.

The next phase includes incorporating this custom Wi-Fi chip into the M5 MacBook Air series. As noted by tech analyst @aaronp613 on X, the upcoming models will retain the same physical dimensions as the previous M4 MacBook Air series, with 13-inch and 15-inch options available, signaling no significant redesigns. Previous reports in March indicated that development of the M5 portable Macs was already underway, suggesting a possible release in the first quarter of 2026. However, it remains to be seen if Apple will integrate the Wi-Fi chip with Bluetooth in a consolidated package or continue using separate chips for the initial release.

The upcoming M5 MacBook Airs, codenamed J813 (13-inch) & J815 (15-inch) will receive a new Apple-made wireless chip based on the leaked Apple code. This is very likely the combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip previously reported by @markgurman

— Aaron (@aaronp613) August 14, 2025

While it appears that Apple might introduce two chips on a single die, given the company’s historical tendency to take gradual steps toward such transitions, it is likely that the initial M5 MacBook Air releases will simply feature the proprietary Wi-Fi chip. Future models may eventually incorporate a more advanced integrated packaging solution. Anticipations suggest this custom chip will mirror the performance characteristics of the iPhone 16e’s C1, enabling Apple to leverage its tightly integrated architecture to improve overall efficiency and battery life on the M5 MacBook Airs, a welcome enhancement even if unnecessary. As always, we look forward to sharing more insights during the official announcement next year, so stay tuned for updates.

News Source: @aaronp6

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