Apple has introduced a new chip architecture with three core types: efficiency, performance, and super cores. In an interview, Anand Shimpi explained that the super core is the fastest CPU core, optimized for single-core performance, while the efficiency core offers high efficiency but lower clock speeds to reduce power consumption.
The new performance core is responsible for multi-threaded performance, allowing for a balance of power efficiency and speed. Doug Brooks confirmed that the names reflect their respective performance characteristics. The M5 Pro and M5 Max chips use this architecture, with Shimpi noting that they surpass the efficiency of the efficiency core.
Shimpi declined to comment on future chip plans, including an M5 Ultra chip. The interview is available on the Mac & i website for those interested in learning more about Apple’s new chip architecture.
Source: https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/20/apple-explains-why-m5-chips-have-three-different-core-types-in-new-interview