Apple has reduced the performance of its M5 Max chip with a software update. The truth is not as it seems! It appeared on TechRadar.

New tests have revealed that recent macOS updates have affected the performance of the M5 Max chip in the MacBook Pro 16, but this does not directly relate to a reduction in performance through software.

Previous tests on macOS version 26.3.1 showed almost no difference between the Automatic and High Power modes, with the chip consuming around 78 watts for a short period before stabilizing at 65 watts, while maintaining stable performance even under continuous stress.

However, Apple changed this behavior with the macOS 26.6.2 update; in Automatic mode, power consumption gradually decreases from 75 watts to 60 and then 54 watts. In contrast, High Power mode maintains higher consumption of up to 75 watts and then 70 watts, giving it better performance for long tasks.

Tests showed that the difference is almost imperceptible in short tasks but becomes clearer under continuous stress; Cinebench 2024 Multi performance decreased by about 5%, while the extended Steel Nomad test over 20 minutes recorded a decrease of around 13%.

However, Apple does not seem to have intentionally reduced performance; rather, it is likely that the company fixed a bug that caused Automatic mode to operate at full power. As a result, High Power mode is now essential for achieving continuous high performance, while Automatic mode remains an appropriate option for those who prefer quiet operation with strong performance.

Source

Apple has reduced the performance of the M5 Max chip with a software update. The truth is not as it seems! Appeared on TechCrunch.