Apple is gearing up to unveil its first M4-powered Macs and new lower-end iPads in the coming weeks, according to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This announcement is in line with Apple’s usual fall product launches, which often introduce significant updates to its hardware lineup.
Apple’s New M4 Macs: What to Expect in the Upcoming Launch
MacBook Pro Updates
One of the highlights of the event will likely be the introduction of updated 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, featuring Apple’s latest M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. These chips promise to enhance performance, building on the success of the M-series chips introduced in previous years.
Despite these internal upgrades, Gurman reports that Apple won’t be making any significant design changes this time around. The MacBook Pro models will maintain their familiar look, with major design innovations, such as OLED displays and a slimmer build, not expected until 2026. The new lineup will include the following models:
- J604: An entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with the standard M4 chip.
- J614 and J616: High-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models that offer more powerful versions of the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.
iMac Update
In addition to the MacBook Pro refresh, Apple is also expected to unveil an updated iMac, equipped with the M4 chip, codenamed J623. This new iMac will not only get a performance boost from the latest silicon but will also feature accessories—like the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad—that transition from Lightning ports to USB-C, in line with the company‘s push toward standardizing this port across its product range.
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Mac mini Revamp
Apple’s Mac mini is also due for a refresh. The new version, which will feature M4 and M4 Pro chips, is expected to be more compact, with the J773 model reportedly being almost the size of an Apple TV. Notably, this new Mac mini will no longer include USB-A ports, signaling Apple’s continued move toward newer, more efficient connections like USB-C.
iPad Mini and Entry-Level iPads
Apple’s upcoming event will also showcase the next-generation iPad mini. This model will come with a faster processor, enhanced front and rear cameras, and support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. It will also address the “jelly scrolling” issue that some users have reported in previous models. Mass production of this iPad mini is expected to begin in the second half of 2024.
Lower-end iPads, such as a possible iPad 11, are also anticipated to make an appearance. Although details about these models remain scarce.
Future Product Launches
Looking beyond the upcoming event, Gurman suggests that Apple has an ambitious roadmap for its Mac lineup. The higher-end MacBook Pros and M4 Pro Mac mini models are already in production, with a release expected soon. Other products, like M4 MacBook Airs, will launch in early 2025. A new Mac Studio could arrive by mid-2025, with a refreshed Mac Pro coming later that year.
In summary, Apple is preparing to roll out significant hardware upgrades across its product lineup. Continuing its trend of pushing the performance boundaries of its devices while maintaining its signature design philosophy.