Apple’s M4 iMac: The Rumors You Should Know
- Apple’s next iMac is packing a beefed-up M4 chip—what does that mean for your workflow?
- Say goodbye to outdated ports: Discover Apple’s sleek USB-C upgrades.
- More memory and faster speeds: Is the M4 iMac the ultimate desktop upgrade?
- Curious about Apple’s upcoming design choices? Read on!
Apple enthusiasts are gearing up for another keynote this fall, likely scheduled for October, where the tech giant is expected to unveil updates across its Mac and iPad lineup. Among the most anticipated releases is the refreshed iMac, powered by the new M4 chip. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s rumored for Apple’s next-generation desktop.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Apple's current iMac model.
Introducing the M4 Chip: A Performance Boost
Apple has a history of iterating its M-series chips, and the upcoming iMac is no exception. Following last October’s transition from the M1 to the M3 chip, the M4 is set to make its debut in the iMac this year. TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process is expected to underpin the new chip, facilitating a transition from an 8-core CPU to a 10-core CPU—a substantial 20-25% performance increase.
The M4 chipset represents a significant leap in performance, ensuring that the iMac remains a powerhouse for both professionals and everyday users.— Mark Gurman
Enhanced Connectivity: USB-C Magic Accessories
In response to upcoming European regulations mandating the transition from Lightning to USB-C, Apple is anticipated to update its accessory lineup. The next iMac release is expected to bundle USB-C versions of the Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, and Magic Trackpad. This shift not only aligns with regulatory requirements but also offers users a more streamlined and versatile connectivity experience.
Memory Upgrades: More Unified Memory
Bloomberg reports suggest that all M4-equipped Macs will start with a minimum of 16GB of RAM, a significant upgrade from the previous 8GB in the base models. The iMac will likely offer configurations with up to 32GB of RAM, catering to power users who require enhanced multitasking capabilities. This increase ensures that the iMac remains competitive, especially as Apple integrates more AI-driven features.
Expanded Thunderbolt Ports: More Power at Your Fingertips
Port availability has been a point of contention for the 24-inch iMac. The base model currently offers 2 Thunderbolt ports, while higher-end models include an additional 2 standard USB-C ports. However, with the new M4 chip reportedly featuring four Thunderbolt controllers, it’s plausible that all four ports on the higher-end iMac models will be Thunderbolt, enhancing data transfer speeds and peripheral connectivity.
Design and Aesthetics: Maintaining the Sleek Profile
While the internal components are getting a significant upgrade, the iMac’s external design is expected to remain largely unchanged. The 24-inch display will continue to be the focal point, maintaining its sleek and minimalist aesthetic that Apple users have come to love. The emphasis remains on delivering powerful performance without compromising on the device’s elegant form factor. Rumors of a larger iMac may have to wait.
Photo via 9to5Mac // A concept image of the 2024 iMac.
Pricing and Availability: What to Expect
Although Apple has not officially announced the pricing, the base model iMac M4 is expected to start at $1,299, consistent with its predecessors. According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the new iMac model number J623 is slated for release in October 2024, with a potential window extending into November should the announcement be delayed.
iMac M3 vs. iMac M4: A Comparative Overview
| Feature/Spec | iMac M3 | iMac M4 |
|---|---|---|
| SoC | Apple M3 | Apple M4 |
| CPU | 8-core | 10-core |
| NPU | 16-core Neural Engine (16 TOPS) | 16-core Neural Engine (38 TOPS) |
| Technology Node | 1st Gen 3nm (N3E) | 2nd Gen 3nm (N3E) |
| GPU | 8-core | 10-core |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB LPDDR5-6400 | 8GB/16GB LPDDR5X 7500 MT/s |
| Price | Starting at $1,299 | Starting at $1,299 |
Future Outlook: What Lies Ahead
While the M4 iMac brings notable enhancements, there are no current rumors of a larger screen variant or an iMac Pro model in the pipeline. Apple appears to be focusing on refining the 24-inch form factor, ensuring it remains a versatile option for a wide range of users. For those seeking a larger display, Apple recommends pairing a Studio Display with another Mac model, offering flexibility without expanding the iMac line.
Conclusion
The upcoming iMac M4 is set to deliver significant performance improvements while maintaining the beloved design of its predecessors. With enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities, increased memory options, and upgraded connectivity, the M4 iMac promises to remain a formidable contender in the all-in-one desktop market. As Apple navigates the complexities of chip advancements and regulatory changes, users can anticipate a powerful and elegant desktop experience this fall.
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