The M4 iMac: Five Exciting Upgrades You Can Expect This Week

The M4 iMac: Five Exciting Upgrades You Can Expect This Week

The M4 iMac. Apple is set to unveil the much-anticipated M4 iMac in a series of press releases next week, marking what Apple’s Greg Joswiak calls an “exciting week of announcements.” This refresh promises several advancements, including powerful performance boosts and next-gen connectivity. Here’s a closer look at what Apple fans can expect from the new M4 iMac.

1. The Power of the M4 Chip

Apple’s upcoming iMac is expected to be powered by the new M4 chip, building on the recent transition to the M3 in last year’s iMac model. The M4 chip, expected to be based on TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process, marks a significant upgrade in CPU power with a shift from 8 cores to 10 cores, delivering an estimated 20-25% increase in performance. This increased power will be welcome news for users who need efficiency for heavy applications like graphic design, video editing, or software development.

This enhanced performance, paired with Apple’s focus on energy efficiency, means users can expect even faster speeds and smoother multitasking without sacrificing battery life. Apple’s decision to add more cores reflects its commitment to creating hardware that meets the growing demands of the user base, catering to both casual users and professionals alike.

2. USB-C Magic Accessories for Enhanced Connectivity

Apple is also expected to revamp its Magic accessories with USB-C ports, bringing them in line with its iPhone and iPad lineups. A recent macOS 15.1 RC code discovery hinted at updates to the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad, all set to transition from Lightning to USB-C. The move is in line with new EU regulations, mandating USB-C on Apple devices sold in Europe, and it promises to make accessory management much simpler for users globally.

These new USB-C Magic accessories will ensure that Apple fans enjoy faster data transfer and charging speeds while benefitting from the versatility of a universal standard. For those who have already invested in USB-C setups, this transition eliminates the hassle of carrying different cables for various devices, aligning perfectly with Apple’s eco-friendly initiatives by reducing the need for multiple charging standard

3. More Unified Memory for Improved Performance

According to reports, all M4 Macs are expected to start with 16GB of unified memory (RAM). This means that the M4 iMac base models will now start at 16GB, a significant increase from the previous 8GB, and will offer upgrade options to 32GB. The previous M3 iMac only allowed upgrades up to 24GB, so this jump not only future-proofs the iMac but also means it’s better suited for memory-intensive applications and more advanced workflows.
The M4 iMac

Unified memory allows the CPU and GPU to access the same memory pool, leading to faster and more efficient processing speeds. For creatives and professionals working with large files or complex software, the extra RAM will mean smoother and more responsive performance across the board, especially when multitasking or handling demanding applications.
The M4 iMac

4. Thunderbolt Expansion for High-Speed Connectivity

One of the most exciting updates is the potential expansion of Thunderbolt ports on the new M4 iMac. Currently, the 24″ iMac lineup includes a basic model with only two Thunderbolt ports, while the higher-end version offers four ports—two Thunderbolt and two USB-C. However, with the M4 chip expected to include four Thunderbolt controllers, Apple might provide all four ports as Thunderbolt, enabling greater versatility for power users.
The M4 iMac

Thunderbolt 4 offers rapid data transfer speeds, supports high-resolution displays, and allows for more powerful device daisy-chaining. For those who rely on high-speed external storage, 4K monitors, or multiple peripherals, this upgrade could greatly enhance productivity. The expansion of Thunderbolt ports aligns with the increasing demands for more advanced connectivity options, making the iMac more adaptable for both work and play.
The M4 iMac

5. Wi-Fi 7 for Future-Ready Connectivity

Wi-Fi 7 is set to debut on the M4 iMac, following its introduction with the iPhone 16 lineup. With speeds up to 46 Gbps, Wi-Fi 7 is nearly five times faster than Wi-Fi 6E, which tops out at 9 Gbps. This new standard also uses 320 MHz channels and supports the 6 GHz band, reducing interference and congestion on crowded networks, making it ideal for users who need the fastest wireless speeds for streaming, gaming, or work-from-home setups.
The M4 iMac

For users with smart homes or multiple connected devices, Wi-Fi 7’s ability to support a more stable, interference-free connection makes it an excellent future-proof addition. And for professionals who frequently upload or download large files, the increased speed can save considerable time and reduce frustration.
The M4 iMac

A Few Limitations

While this refresh brings several improvements, it’s worth noting that the M4 iMac lineup will likely remain limited to a 24″ model. Despite continued interest in larger iMacs, Apple has yet to release an official update on larger models or an iMac Pro. For those wanting more screen real estate, Apple still recommends pairing a Studio Display with a Mac Mini or Mac Studio as an alternative to a larger iMac.
The M4 iMac

The 24″ size remains ideal for many users, offering a balance between portability and screen size. However, for creative professionals who need the immersive workspace that a larger screen offers, the continued absence of larger iMac options remains a drawback.
The M4 iMac

Wrapping Up: M4 iMac Expectations

With a more powerful M4 chip, unified memory starting at 16GB, USB-C accessories, enhanced Thunderbolt connectivity, and the new Wi-Fi 7 standard, the M4 iMac refresh brings welcome upgrades to Apple’s all-in-one desktop. These updates make the iMac a competitive choice for users seeking a blend of high performance, advanced connectivity, and a refined user experience.

Although Apple hasn’t addressed the need for a larger iMac, this refresh brings the 24″ model up to speed with the latest technology and connectivity standards. Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or a casual user, the new iMac is shaping up to be a powerful and versatile addition to Apple’s lineup.
The M4 iMac

Stay tuned for more updates from Apple’s announcement next week—this exciting iMac refresh might just be the perfect fit for your needs!
The M4 iMac
The M4 iMac
The M4 iMac