Apple Unveils Updated 24-inch iMac with M4 Chip and Enhanced Features

Apple has unveiled the latest upgrade to its 24-inch iMac, now equipped with the powerful M4 chip, which first appeared in the iPad Pro earlier this year. This new version arrives approximately one year after the M3 chip was introduced in the previous iMac model. The M4 chip in the new iMac offers up to a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, marking a notable leap in performance over its predecessors.

According to Apple, the M4-equipped iMac delivers up to 1.7 times faster speeds for everyday tasks and up to 2.1 times faster processing for intensive workflows, including photo editing and gaming, compared to the M1 model. In the iPad Pro, the M4 chip has shown a 25% increase in speed over the M3, suggesting that iMac users can expect a similar year-over-year performance boost.

Every version of the M4 chip now features a faster 16-core Neural Engine, which enhances Apple Intelligence capabilities. However, it’s important to note that Apple Intelligence is also available in earlier models with the M1 and M3 chips.

The updated iMac now starts with a minimum of 16GB RAM, compared to the previous base model’s 8GB, reflecting Apple’s potential shift to 16GB as a new baseline for future Mac models. Users can opt for configurations of up to 32GB of RAM, alongside up to 2TB of SSD storage.

Apple has enhanced the iMac’s front-facing camera, upgrading it to a 12-megapixel sensor with Center Stage support, which keeps users centered in the frame during video calls. An additional Desk View feature allows for simultaneous views of the user’s face and a top-down perspective of the workspace.

Although the iMac’s physical design remains unchanged, Apple introduced several new color options, including refreshed shades of green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and blue, alongside the classic silver. Furthermore, the iMac now includes an optional nano-texture display, which minimizes screen glare by scattering light—a feature previously available only in the Intel-based 27-inch iMac from 2020.

The iMac’s connectivity has also been improved, with all four rear USB-C ports on the high-end configurations now supporting Thunderbolt 4. This is an upgrade from the previous two Thunderbolt 3 and two USB-C ports on prior models. The base model, with an 8-core M4 chip, includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports.

When equipped with the top M4 chip configuration—featuring a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU—the iMac can support an 8K external display at 120Hz or two 6K displays at 60Hz.

Accompanying this iMac release, Apple announced updates to its accessory lineup, including the Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, and Magic Trackpad. These devices now feature USB-C charging ports, replacing the previous Lightning connectors. The iMac comes bundled with the Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard, while the Magic Trackpad is available as an optional upgrade.

The new iMac is available for pre-order starting today, with official availability in the U.S. beginning on Friday, November 8. Prices start at $1,299.