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By Zayden R., August 8, 2026
The upcoming Linux 7.3 kernel will include initial support for Apple's M3 Pro, Max, and Ultra SoCs. While this is a foundational step, significant features like GPU acceleration remain unsupported.
The Linux 7.3 kernel is set to include initial support for Apple's M3 Pro, Max, and Ultra system-on-chips (SoCs). This development is primarily focused on integrating basic Device Tree files, which marks a crucial step towards broader mainline kernel compatibility for these Apple chips. However, it's important to note that this initial support is not yet practical for end-users, as many essential features, including GPU acceleration, are still absent.
The Apple M3 Pro and M3 Max were introduced in late 2023, followed by the M3 Ultra in March 2025 with the Mac Studio. The current level of support for these chips in the Linux 7.3 kernel mirrors that of the basic M3 SoC, which was included in the previous 7.2 kernel release. Despite the progress, users seeking a more functional environment for the M3 series might find the downstream Asahi Linux distribution more viable, although it too has ongoing development challenges.
For engineers and developers, this upstreaming effort lays the groundwork for future enhancements. While the timing for fully functional mainline Linux support remains uncertain, the inclusion of these Device Tree files in the 7.3 kernel is a positive indicator of the community's commitment to expanding Linux's reach across diverse hardware platforms. Meanwhile, the Apple DT pull for Linux 7.3 also includes HWMON support for earlier M1 and M2 series chips, addressing the complexities of Apple's sensor architecture.
In essence, while the current support is not yet ready for daily use, it represents a significant foundational step. Engineers interested in experimenting with these Apple SoCs on Linux should keep an eye on future kernel updates and the progress of the Asahi Linux project.
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