Chapter 1.1: What to Expect from the New iMac

It’s reasonable to assume that a new iMac will be announced. The only potential twist would be if they opted for an M2 iMac instead of the anticipated M3. If an M2 were indeed in the cards, wouldn’t it just be released via a simple press release? An M2 iMac doesn’t seem significant enough to warrant a grand event—an M3 iMac feels like a certainty for today.

Although the visual design of the iMac may remain similar, Mark Gurman suggests that we could see a new height-adjustable and tilt-adjustable stand. If that’s the case, as ridiculous as it may sound, I might just be among the first in line. My fondness for iMacs runs deep; I've worked on them consistently from 2012 until last year and have owned several over the years. As I write, two are here in my studio, and soon they could be joined by another.

It also seems likely that we might see the complete lineup of M3 Macs today, including high-end variants like the M3 Pro and Max for the MacBooks. There’s been no mention of the Mac Studio or Mac Pro, which suggests they might be revealed in the spring.

While we can be fairly certain that Macs will take center stage, there could still be a few surprises if Apple is feeling adventurous.

Chapter 1.2: Nostalgic Dreams of the iMac Pro

Let’s take a moment to reflect on a time when the iMac Pro had a significant following. I never owned one, but it was undoubtedly a remarkable machine, featuring either an 8-core or 10-core Xeon W processor, and could be outfitted with up to 4TB of storage and a Pro Vega 64X GPU. These machines were not the cheapest, but they were exceptional for pre-Apple silicon Macs. If the Mac Pro was out of reach, the iMac Pro offered a tantalizing alternative.

Given its legacy, there have been whispers about the potential return of an M-powered Mac Pro in Apple's lineup. However, as much as many would love to see it, I’m skeptical. The launch of the iMac Pro was driven by a clear market gap, but with the introduction of Mac Studio and advancements in Apple silicon, the need for a Mac Pro seems diminished.

Chapter 2.1: Something Different This Time

This event is notable as Apple has never hosted one at 5 PM PT, indicating a desire to make it stand out. In the lead-up, Apple has sent gift boxes to select influencers containing AirPods Max, merchandise, and treats, suggesting they may be planning something special beyond just an iMac reveal.

Given that the Apple Vision Pro has already been introduced, and with the AirPods not expected to refresh until late next year, what else could Apple have in store?

One possibility is the Pro Display XDR, which would perfectly complement the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. Notably, the display is nearing four years old, and it’s surprising that ordering one today in the UK results in a delivery wait of over a month. Long wait times and low stock often hint at impending changes.