Mario Bautista
The year 2024 is almost ending, and for Apple, it has been a year full of exciting launches, including the most powerful iPad Pro with the M4 chip and new software updates like iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. The new generation of iPhones—the iPhone 16 series—also made its debut. However, Apple’s launch season isn’t over yet. The company is reportedly gearing up for an exciting finale to 2024 with the anticipated release of new Macs, including refreshed MacBook Pro models, a new Mac mini, and an updated iMac, all powered by the next-generation M4 chip.
Let’s take a detailed look at what we can expect from the upcoming Mac lineup.
MacBook Pro models with M4 chip
According to industry insiders, Apple is preparing to launch refreshed and more powerful 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring the M4 chip. These new-generation MacBooks are expected to come with a minimum of 16GB of RAM, a significant upgrade from the 8GB base configuration found in the M3 models. The increase in memory is likely to address the growing demand for more power, especially to support Apple’s new AI-driven features, packed into Apple Intelligence, which require higher performance.
The M4 chip in the MacBooks will reportedly will feature a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, offering a significant performance boost compared to the octa-core CPU in the M3 models. Storage options will reportedly start at 512GB, with larger configurations available.
Meanwhile, in terms of design, the new MacBook Pro models are not expected to bring major changes. Apple seems focused on internal performance upgrades rather than aesthetic tweaks. However, one notable connectivity update is the addition of more Thunderbolt 4 ports. Additionally, the new MacBooks are likely to come in a Space Black colour variant, which was previously exclusive to higher-end versions.
Mac mini
Apple is also expected to release a revamped Mac mini equipped with the M4 chip. The compact desktop will likely retain its current design but receive significant performance improvements under the hood, thanks to the new silicon. While details about the Mac mini’s specific configurations remain under wraps, it’s expected to offer improved CPU and GPU performance, making it a more appealing option for users who need a small yet powerful machine.
There are also rumours that the Mac mini may complete its transition by removing any remaining USB-A ports, potentially offering up to five USB-C ports, including two conveniently located on the front for easy access.
iMac with M4 chip
In addition to the MacBook Pro and Mac mini, Apple is expected to introduce an updated 24-inch iMac. If true, this would mark the first significant hardware upgrade to the all-in-one desktop since its last iteration in 2021. Like the other new Macs, the iMac is also expected to receive the M4 chip.
The M4-powered iMac is anticipated to offer the same vibrant display and sleek design, with the real improvements coming from the enhanced performance of the new chip.
USB-C across lineup
Another notable update expected across all of these new Macs is the possibility of the Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse transitioning from Lightning to USB-C. This change would align Apple’s entire product lineup with the USB-C standard, already adopted across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices, in compliance with EU regulations.
When are the new Macs launching?
Apple is expected to launch its new Mac lineup in an October event. Alongside the new Macs, Apple may also unveil updates to its iPad lineup, including refreshed versions of the iPad mini and entry-level iPads.
