In an unexpected move, Apple’s Senior Vice President Greg Joswiak confirmed on X that “an exciting week of announcements” is coming, marking the company’s first major Mac refresh of 2024. Breaking from tradition, Apple will unveil three new M4-powered Macs through press releases over three consecutive days, starting October 28.
According to Bloomberg’s latest report, the lineup includes refreshed versions of the MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac. The most significant upgrade across all models is the M4 chip, which boasts unprecedented AI processing capabilities through its enhanced Neural Engine, capable of handling up to 38 trillion operations per second (TOPS) – more than double its predecessor’s performance.
The base M4 MacBook Pro will feature a 10-core CPU and GPU configuration, matching the specifications of the recently released M4 iPad Pro. In a notable shift, Apple is increasing the base RAM to 16GB, addressing the memory demands of new AI features.
Perhaps the most exciting revelation is the Mac Mini’s dramatic redesign. The new model will be significantly smaller, approaching the size of an Apple TV, while offering expanded connectivity with two front-facing USB-C ports and three at the rear – marking its first major design overhaul in over a decade.
The iMac update, while more modest in scope, will incorporate the M4 chip to enable Apple Intelligence features across the entire Mac lineup. This strategic move aligns with Apple’s broader push into AI-powered computing, following the chip’s successful debut in the iPad Pro earlier this year.
Industry analysts expect these releases to help reverse Apple’s recent market share decline in the PC segment. “The focus on AI capabilities could drive significant demand in the premium PC market,” suggests market research firm IDC.
While the MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro won’t receive M4 updates this week, sources indicate that an M4 MacBook Air refresh is planned for early 2025. Apple has scheduled hands-on briefings with select media and creators in Los Angeles on Wednesday, suggesting immediate availability following the announcements.
The staggered announcement strategy, while unusual, isn’t unprecedented for Apple. The company employed a similar approach in 2019 with consecutive product launches of the iPad mini, iPad Air, iMac, and AirPods.
Preorders are expected to begin this week, with devices likely reaching customers by next Friday. This launch represents Apple’s most significant step yet toward AI-enhanced computing, setting the stage for a new era of Mac capabilities.
