Apple introduces new iMac with M4 chips
Apple on Monday launched a refreshed version of its 24-inch iMac, equipped with the company's latest 3nm M4 chip and a 4.5K Retina display.
Apple introduced an updated version of its 24-inch iMac on Monday, featuring the latest 3nm M4 chip and a 4.5K Retina display. The company from Cupertino has also refreshed its Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, along with the Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad accessories, which now include a USB Type-C port. Consistent with its recent computers utilizing Apple Silicon chipsets, the new 24-inch iMac is compatible with the newly launched Apple Intelligence features that are being made available to eligible devices in the United States.
Furthermore, the base RAM of the iMac has been increased to 16GB compared to the previous model, with the option to upgrade to a maximum of 32GB for the higher-end configuration. The latest iMac is equipped with a 12MP webcam and introduces new Apple Intelligence features that are being launched today, including AI-driven writing and editing tools, as well as an updated version of Siri. The premium model also accommodates up to two external 6K displays at 60Hz or one external 8K display at 120Hz.
The latest chipset features enhanced connectivity options. The premium variant is equipped with four Thunderbolt 4 ports that include Ethernet support, allowing for output to either two 6K 60Hz external displays or one 8K 120Hz display. In contrast, the base model is limited to two Thunderbolt 4 ports without Ethernet capability (which can be added separately for an additional $30) and supports only a single 6K 60Hz external display.
The front-facing webcam has been enhanced to a new 12MP 1080p model that incorporates Apple's Center Stage functionality. This feature utilizes a wide-angle lens to dynamically adjust the framing based on the individuals present in the shot. Additionally, there is a Desk View capability that leverages the camera's ultrawide field of view to display the items on your desk beneath the iMac, while also applying perspective correction. The triple microphone and six-speaker array remain unchanged from previous versions.
Apple has made enhancements to the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and the optional Magic Trackpad by incorporating USB-C ports, thereby replacing the previous Lightning versions. Additionally, these devices are now color coordinated with the iMac, maintaining the previous aesthetic.
Apple has unveiled a new color palette that includes six distinct options alongside the unchanged original silver. However, it may require some time to identify the differences from previous generation models, as the colors are fundamentally similar but have experienced slight modifications. The blue hue has transitioned to a more aqua tone rather than navy; the purple has evolved into a lavender shade instead of violet; the pink now resembles bubblegum rather than raspberry; the green has shifted to a jade color as opposed to turquoise; the yellow is now more akin to lemon sherbet in place of pumpkin; and the orange appears to be merely half a shade lighter, although this remains somewhat uncertain. It is noteworthy that most of the color changes are visible on the back, while the stand and front bottom bezel have largely retained their original appearance.