Apple Set to Unveil M4-Powered Macs 'Next Week'
- Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals Apple’s new M4 Macs are launching next week.
- Expect a sleek redesign of Mac minis and powerful MacBook Pros equipped with M4 chips.
- An exclusive hands-on event in LA signals major Apple announcements.
- Leaker Sonny Dickson hints at additional surprises for the Mac lineup.
Apple enthusiasts are gearing up for a significant update as Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman confirms the imminent launch of Macs powered by Apple’s new M4 chips. Initially hinting at a "very soon" release, Gurman has now provided a more precise timeline, setting expectations for next week.
Photo via Kimstore // Apple's new M4-equipped Macs are coming 'next week', Mark Gurman says.
Tight Schedule Ahead
In a recent social media post, Gurman outlined Apple’s busy week:
- Monday: Apple Intelligence session.
- Tuesday: M4 Mac launch.
- Thursday: Earnings results.
“Busy week for Apple next week: Apple Intelligence on Monday, then M4 Mac launch, then earnings results on Thursday,” Gurman tweeted, highlighting a packed schedule that tech enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting.
Busy week for Apple next week: Apple Intelligence on Monday, then M4 Mac launch, then earnings results on Thursday.
Exclusive Hands-On Event in Los Angeles
Adding to the anticipation, Gurman revealed that Apple is hosting a hands-on event for journalists and content creators in Los Angeles on Wednesday. “Apple is inviting journalists and content creators to a hands-on experience in Los Angeles next Wednesday,” he noted. This suggests that the new Macs will need to be announced before the event to allow ample time for media interaction and coverage.
Photo via Inkl // A concept of Apple's upcoming 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring Apple’s powerful M4 chip.
Conflicting Rumors from Leaker Sonny Dickson
While Gurman’s information points to a launch next week, leaker Sonny Dickson has introduced some uncertainty by claiming that the new Mac mini, featuring five USB-C ports, might also launch within the same timeframe. Although Dickson has a track record of accurate leaks through cases and dummy models, some of his hardware-related claims have previously missed the mark.
What to Expect: New Products on the Horizon
Based on Gurman’s insights and industry rumors, here are the Macs and accessories Apple is likely to announce:
MacBook Pro:
- 14-inch Entry-Level Model: Equipped with the M4 chip and an additional Thunderbolt port.
- 14-inch and 16-inch Models: Available with M4 Pro and M4 Max chip options.
iMac:
- 24-inch Model: Updated with the M4 chip.
Mac mini:
- Redesigned Aesthetic: Smaller, Apple TV-like design with two front-facing USB-C ports, eliminating USB-A ports.
- Chip Options: Available with M4 and M4 Pro chips.
Accessories:
- USB-C Versions: Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Keyboard to feature USB-C ports.
Photo via HeyDingus // Apple is expected to announce several new hardware products, including M4 MacBook Pros, M4 Mac mini and an M4 iMac model.
A leaked 14-inch MacBook Pro appeared in unboxing videos earlier this month, suggesting a November 2024 release. If these leaks are accurate, customers might receive the new M4 Macs next month, even if they are announced imminently.
Launch Event: Online or Press Release?
The format of Apple’s upcoming launch remains under speculation:
- Online Livestream Event: Following last year's "Scary Fast" event on October 30, Apple might opt for a similar virtual unveiling.
- Press Release via Apple Newsroom: Alternatively, Apple could announce the new Macs through a series of press releases without a formal event.
Gurman hinted that an online event is more likely, especially since Apple has already introduced the M4 chip in the latest iPad Pro back in May 2024, potentially reducing the need for a grand reveal.
Supply Chain Signals and Product Readiness
Gurman also pointed out that inventory levels for current iMacs, Mac mini, MacBook Pros, and accessories are low in Apple retail stores. “Inventory at Apple retail stores is very low on iMacs, Mac mini and MacBook Pros, Magic Keyboards, Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad,” he stated. Low inventory is often a precursor to new product launches, indicating that Apple is preparing to replace existing products with updated versions.
Performance Boost with M4 Chip
The new M4 chip promises significant performance improvements. Benchmarks indicate that the passively cooled M4 CPU in the latest iPad Pro outperforms the previous M3 Pro, suggesting that the new Macs will offer substantial speed and efficiency upgrades for users. This enhancement is expected to bolster Apple’s competitive edge in the market.
Industry Anticipation
Analysts are optimistic about the M4 Macs, viewing them as essential upgrades to maintain Apple’s leading position in the tech industry. The shift to USB-C in accessories is also seen as a welcome modernization, aligning peripherals with current connectivity standards and improving overall user experience.
Photo via 9to5Mac // Mark your calendars because Apple's new MacBooks are dropping sooner than you thought!
Conclusion
With the launch window narrowing, Apple fans should stay tuned for official announcements in the coming week. Whether through a grand online event or a series of press releases, the introduction of M4-powered Macs marks another significant milestone in Apple’s hardware evolution. As Gurman and other industry insiders suggest, the next week could be a pivotal moment for Apple’s Mac lineup.
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