Apple Starts 3 Day "Event" With M4 iMac!

Summary

Apple's recent Mac event introduced a new iMac featuring the M4 chip and updated color options, but many consider the changes underwhelming. The event was a pre-recorded presentation rather than a live stream, raising questions about Apple's future format for announcements. Key updates include USB-C accessories and improved RAM, but storage capacities remain disappointing. As speculation grows around upcoming MacBook Pro and Mac Mini launches, viewers are left questioning the excitement and pricing strategies of Apple’s latest offerings. Overall, the event signals a shift in how Apple presents its products to consumers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Apple launched a new iMac during a pre-recorded keynote event.
• 🎨 The new iMac features slightly lighter color tones but retains the same overall palette.
• ⚡ The iMac is powered by the new M4 chip, promising enhanced performance.
• 📸 A 12 MP Center Stage camera has been added, which was previously lacking in past models.
• 💻 The base model now comes with 16 GB of RAM as standard.
• 🔌 Magic accessories have transitioned to USB-C, though Apple has not prominently displayed this on their website.
• 💵 The starting price for the base iMac model remains at $1,300, but gigabit Ethernet is an additional $30 upgrade.
• 🖤 Black versions of the magic accessories come at a $20 premium.
• 📦 Both the $1,300 and $1,500 iMac models still feature only 256 GB of default storage.
• 🔮 Future announcements are anticipated for the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini, with potential significant spec upgrades.

Q & A

What was the format of Apple's recent event?

The event was a pre-recorded 10-minute keynote presentation, rather than a live-streamed event.

What are the new features of the updated iMac?

The new iMac features slightly lighter color tones, the M4 chip, doubled standard memory (16 GB), and a 12 MP Center Stage camera.

Why is the absence of a Center Stage camera in the previous iMac surprising?

It is surprising because the Center Stage camera has been available on other devices for years, leading to assumptions that it would be included in the iMac.

What is notable about the pricing of the new iMac?

The base model starts at $1,300, the same price as before, which is seen positively since it offers better features.

How has Apple changed its accessory offerings?

Apple switched the Magic Keyboard, Trackpad, and Mouse to USB-C, but they have not prominently displayed this change on their website.

What is the additional cost for black accessories?

Black accessories cost an additional $20 compared to white ones.

What are the storage options for the new iMac models?

Both the $1,300 and $1,500 models come with a default storage of 256 GB, which some find disappointing.

What future product announcements were hinted at during the event?

Two more announcements are expected, likely regarding the MacBook Pro and a redesigned Mac Mini.

What chips are anticipated for the MacBook Pro?

The MacBook Pro is expected to feature the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.

What questions does the event format raise about Apple's future?

The pre-recorded format raises questions about whether Apple will shift away from live broadcasts, which could impact audience engagement.