Apple's Upcoming Event: Potential Launch of New M3 iMac

Could we finally witness the unveiling of a successor to the iMac Pro?

Without further delay, let's dive into the 'new' gadgets introduced and the notable omissions.

MacBook Pro Updates

Apple revealed enhancements to the MacBook Pro lineup, although these were somewhat different from prior expectations. There were rumors that the 13-inch MacBook Pro would be the first to receive the new M3 chip, with the 14-inch and 16-inch models following in 2024. However, Apple announced that both the 14-inch and 16-inch models would feature the new M3 chips, ranging from the standard M3 to the more powerful M3 Max.

The introduction of these new chips has elevated an already robust computer to new heights. For those in the United States, these models will be available starting next week, with the 14-inch base model priced at $1,599, and the highest specifications reaching up to $6,899. The 16-inch model starts at $2,499 and can be configured to a maximum of $7,199.

Notably, Apple has discontinued the 13-inch MacBook Pro, meaning it is no longer available for purchase on their website. The 14-inch model now serves as the entry-level MacBook Pro. If you're looking for a 13-inch MacBook, your options are limited to the older 2020 M1 MacBook Air or the slightly more recent M2 MacBook Air.

Apple's lineup now includes the 13-inch (M1 and M2 MacBook Air), 14-inch (M3 MacBook Pro), 15-inch (M2 MacBook Air), and 16-inch (M3 MacBook Pro). This offers a solid selection, making the discontinuation of the 13-inch Pro a reasonable choice. For fans of the 13-inch model, it's time to say farewell to the Touch Bar that has been a staple since its introduction in 2016.

iMac Enhancements

As anticipated, Apple introduced an upgraded 24-inch iMac featuring the new M3 chip. Unlike the MacBook Pro, however, this model is available only with the base M3 chip. Customers can choose between two configurations: one with just two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, and another offering two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports plus two additional USB 3 ports.

Similar to the MacBook Pro, orders can be placed now, with deliveries commencing next week in the U.S. The starting price for the base model is $1,299, while the highest specifications can reach $2,699. The color options remain unchanged, including Blue, Green, Pink, and Silver for the two-port model, and Yellow, Orange, and Purple for the four-port version.

The iMac Pro and Other Missed Announcements

The anticipated successor to the iMac Pro has been rumored numerous times but has not yet materialized. At one point, it was speculated to launch alongside the 24-inch iMac. However, this has yet to happen, and the idea of a 32-inch iMac Pro in Space Black remains unfulfilled. It appears that Apple does not perceive a significant demand for the iMac Pro, choosing to maintain the Mac Pro as the sole professional desktop available.

This decision makes sense, especially since alternatives like the Mac Studio and Mac mini (which are equipped with M2 chips) are already quite powerful. For those seeking a more robust Mac experience, the Mac Pro is the way to go. It would be nice to have a 32-inch iMac option again, similar to the previous 21-inch and 27-inch models, and perhaps even in a sleek Space Black finish.

7th Generation iPad Mini

Another device that was anticipated but ultimately not announced was the 7th generation iPad mini. There were hopes that it would feature either the M1 chip, akin to the iPad Air, or the A17 Pro chip found in the latest iPhone 15 Pro models. Personally, I was looking forward to this release, as I've missed having an iPad mini.

Currently, I'm using the 4th generation 11-inch iPad Pro with the M2 chip. If the iPad mini 7 were released with either the M1 or A17 Pro chip, I would definitely be among the first to purchase it. The iPad mini offers a unique experience compared to larger iPads, making it more enjoyable and practical to use.