Apple introduced the latest upgrade to its iMac line, featuring the powerful new M4 chip, an upgraded 12MP Center Stage camera, and a standard 16GB of unified memory. While the exterior design of the iMac remains unchanged, the tech giant has made significant updates under the hood, including improved ports, a broader color range, and updated input devices with USB-C connectivity.
The M4 chip, first introduced in the iPad Pro earlier this year, replaces the M3 processor in the iMac, delivering enhanced performance and efficiency. Apple has also increased the base unified memory to 16GB across all configurations, which is double the previous standard of 8GB. The premium models, priced at $1,499 and $1,699, now feature four Thunderbolt 4 ports, an upgrade from the two Thunderbolt 4 and two USB-C ports offered in equivalent M3 configurations. The entry-level $1,299 model retains two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.
Here’s a breakdown of the new M4 iMac standard configurations:
- $1,299: 8-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD, two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, Magic Keyboard.
- $1,499: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.
- $1,699: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.
- $1,899: 10-core M4 chip (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores), 8-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD, four Thunderbolt 4 ports, gigabit ethernet, Magic Keyboard with Touch ID.
The M4 iMac comes in a vibrant array of colors, including blue, green, orange, pink, purple, silver, and yellow, with all colors available across all configurations. The included Magic Keyboard and choice of Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad (with a $50 upgrade for the Trackpad) now feature USB-C ports, marking a shift from the previous Lightning connectors.
For video and conferencing, Apple has replaced the former 1080p FaceTime camera with a more advanced 12MP Center Stage camera, supporting Desk View and 1080p HD recording. This camera upgrade offers smoother tracking and better clarity, enhancing the video experience.
Another new option is the nano-texture glass for the display, priced at an additional $200. This feature offers a matte finish for users who prefer reduced glare compared to the standard glossy display. The M4 iMac retains the impressive 24-inch, 4.5K Retina display with 500 nits of brightness, P3 color gamut support, and True Tone.
Pre-orders for the M4 iMac are available now, with shipping starting on November 8.
