Apple’s shift to its in-house silicon chips has been a major focus for the company in recent years. Following the successful introduction of the M1 and M2 chips, the tech giant is now gearing up for the launch of its next-generation M4 chip.
Gurman’s recent report on his Power On newsletter indicates that several Mac models are in line to receive this performance upgrade later this year.
Upgrades, upgrades, and even more upgrades
The MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac are expected to be the first recipients of the M4 chip. These devices, representing a significant portion of Apple’s Mac lineup, have been popular choices for various user groups.
While the MacBook Pro and iMac received updates last year with the M3 chip, as announced at Apple’s Scary Fest event, the Mac mini skipped this generation. The upcoming M4 update promises to bring performance improvements to all three models.
Redesign is in talks
Beyond the chip upgrade, there is speculation about more substantial changes, particularly for the Mac mini and Mac Pro. These devices have retained their original designs for an extended period, with the Mac mini’s last redesign dating back to 2010 and the Mac Pro sharing its chassis with the 2019 model.
Given the limitations of the current Mac Pro design in accommodating Apple Silicon’s architecture, a redesign seems inevitable.
Don’t be fooled by its size
The Mac mini, despite its longevity, has maintained a loyal following due to its compact form factor and versatility. An updated design could breathe new life into this popular device.
While the upcoming M4 chip will undoubtedly enhance its performance, a refreshed appearance and potentially new features could make it even more appealing to consumers.
New heights to familiar models
As for the MacBook Pro and iMac, the M4 chip is expected to be the primary focus of this year’s updates. However, there is a possibility of minor refinements, such as improved displays or additional features.
The iMac, in particular, could benefit from updated accessories, as the current model still includes Lightning-based peripherals. A transition to USB-C accessories would align the iMac more closely with the rest of Apple’s product ecosystem.
While the M4 chip will undoubtedly bring performance gains to the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac, the potential for more significant changes, especially for the Mac mini and Mac Pro, adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming product launches.
As we approach the end of the year, more details about these updates are likely to emerge, providing a clearer picture of what Apple has in store for its Mac lineup.
Featured image credit: dlxmedia.hu/Unsplash
