Apple is expected to host another highly anticipated product launch event by the end of October 2024. Unlike the iPhone-focused September event, this upcoming launch will be dedicated to Macs, specifically the Apple Silicon M4-powered Macs. It’s speculated to include a refreshed iMac, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and potentially more. Additionally, Apple may introduce a much-needed refresh for the iPad Mini.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect from the event:
MacBook Pro M4
One of the stars of the show is anticipated to be the new MacBook Pro, which has already been unboxed ahead of the official announcement. The upcoming models are expected to be quite similar to the current ones, with 14-inch and 16-inch versions. However, they will pack a performance punch with the new M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. The base-level M4 MacBook Pro will reportedly include 16GB of RAM, a notable upgrade from the 8GB RAM found in the current base 14-inch M3 variant.
In terms of processing power, the base M4 MacBook Pro could feature a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, compared to the 8-core CPU in the previous generation. Connectivity is also expected to get a boost, with the base version likely offering three Thunderbolt 4 ports, up from two in the existing M3 lineup. On the design front, Apple may introduce a new Space Black color option, previously available only in higher-end versions of the M3 series.
Mac Mini M4
The Mac Mini is also expected to receive a significant overhaul. Apple’s Mac Mini was one of the first computers to adopt the Apple Silicon architecture, but its design has remained largely unchanged for over a decade. This time around, the M4-powered Mac Mini is set for a major redesign, with reports suggesting a thinner chassis that could make it resemble the size of an Apple TV, albeit taller.
The next-generation Mac Mini is expected to ship with both M4 and M4 Pro chips, with the base model reportedly featuring 16GB of RAM, similar to the new MacBook Pro. Connectivity options will see a modern upgrade as well, with the Mac Mini likely dropping USB-A ports in favor of USB-C. The redesigned model could offer five USB-C ports, HDMI, a headphone/microphone jack, and Ethernet connectivity, marking a shift toward modern aesthetics and utility.
iMac M4
The upcoming iMac will also get the M4 treatment. Apple is expected to upgrade the iMac’s internals with the M4 chip, potentially featuring a 10-core CPU for enhanced performance. While the design will likely remain similar to the current iMac, performance gains will be significant, with the base model reportedly starting with 16GB of RAM, with options going up to 32GB—a substantial increase over the current 24GB RAM limit.
Connectivity improvements could include four Thunderbolt ports in higher-end models, leveraging the M4 chip’s additional controllers. There’s also speculation that the new iMac may support Wi-Fi 7 for faster wireless connections. Additionally, Apple is expected to refresh its accompanying accessories, including the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad, all of which may switch from Lightning to USB-C, aligning with Apple’s broader move toward USB-C across its devices.
iPad Mini with A18 Chip
In addition to the Mac updates, Apple is expected to unveil a new iPad Mini at the event. The smallest tablet in Apple’s lineup is speculated to receive a significant performance upgrade, being powered by the A18 chip, the same chip found in the iPhone 16. This upgrade will make the iPad Mini more capable of handling Apple Intelligence features and provide a smoother overall experience with 8GB of RAM.
Additionally, the new iPad Mini may support the Apple Pencil Pro, which is currently compatible with the iPad Air and iPad Pro models. There are also whispers of a landscape-oriented front camera—a feature that has been notably absent in the iPad Mini for several years.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s October 2024 event promises to bring exciting updates across the Mac and iPad product lines, with a particular focus on the new M4 chip’s performance and design changes. Whether it’s the redesigned Mac Mini or the powerhouse MacBook Pro and iMac models, these products will push the boundaries of what Apple Silicon can achieve. The iPad Mini refresh will also breathe new life into Apple’s smallest tablet, making it a more versatile device for both work and entertainment.
