Apple has unveiled its latest iMac, the 2024 model, which retains much of its predecessor’s external design but introduces significant internal upgrades. The new iMac now features the latest Apple silicon, the M4 chip, which promises enhanced performance and efficiency. While the display and colorful designs remain consistent with previous models, Apple has introduced a new nano-texture glass screen option that reduces glare and reflections.
The M4 chip inside the new iMac provides a substantial speed boost, making the computer 1.7 times faster for everyday productivity tasks and up to 2.1 times faster for more demanding activities such as gaming and photo editing compared to the M1-powered model. The base RAM has been increased from 8GB to 16GB, with options to expand up to 24GB or 32GB. Storage options remain the same, starting at 256GB and going up to 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB.
The 2024 iMac retains the familiar aluminum unibody design and 24-inch 4.5K Retina display that has been a hallmark of the iMac lineup for the past three years. However, Apple has introduced new color options, including green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver. The colors are more vibrant on the back of the device and more subdued on the front to minimize distractions. A notable upgrade is the new 12MP Center Stage camera, which supports Apple’s Desk View feature. The iMac also includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support for improved connectivity.
There are key configuration differences to consider. The base model still features only two Thunderbolt USB-C ports. However, the higher-end models, which come with a 10-core CPU and GPU, now have all four USB-C ports compatible with Thunderbolt 4. Additionally, the option to upgrade to 32GB of RAM is only available with the more powerful chipset and at least 512GB of storage. The nano-texture display option is not available on the base model, which supports one external display, while higher-end versions can handle two external displays.
In terms of sustainability, Apple has made strides by ensuring the iMac’s packaging is entirely fiber-based, aligning with the company’s goal to eliminate plastic from its packaging by next year. Alongside the new iMac, Apple has updated its desktop accessories, transitioning from the old Lightning standard to USB-C. The new Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Mouse are available in colors that match the iMac’s design.
The M4 iMac will be available starting November 8, with a starting price of $1,299, the same as its predecessor. The base model includes an eight-core CPU, an eight-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, and comes with a Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse or Magic Trackpad. Higher-end configurations include a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID. Pre-orders are available starting today.
