Apple unveils the new iMac with M4 chip and vibrant colors
But, is it worth the upgrade?
We already knew that it would be a “week of exciting announcements,” from Apple, so there were no surprises that the new M4 iMac has arrived—although not with the fanfare many anticipated.
For the first time in years, Apple opted to skip a dedicated Mac October event, choosing instead to unveil updates via online announcements. This change hints at a strategic shift in Apple’s focus for this product cycle.
Rather than introducing a broad lineup of new hardware, Apple seems to be concentrating on refining existing products and emphasizing software-driven improvements. This year’s iMac release, featuring the new M4 chip and vibrant colors, aligns with that focus, delivering performance tweaks and added AI tools without a radical redesign. But is it enough to entice upgraders? Let's find out.
Kelechi Edeh
The new M4 chip: faster, but how much?
At the heart of the new iMac is Apple’s M4 chip, which Apple claims offers up to 1.7 times faster speeds for everyday tasks and up to 2.1 times faster for more demanding applications like gaming and photo editing compared to the M1 model.
Intel-based users might see the largest leap in speed, however, with Apple estimating performance up to six times faster than some Intel models. The M4 also powers specific apps, enhancing Safari by 1.5 times, improving Microsoft Excel by 1.7 times, and speeding up Adobe photo and video edits by as much as 2.1 times.
With a Neural Engine reportedly three times faster, the M4 supports new Apple Intelligence features designed to improve multitasking and handle complex tasks with ease. Apple further describes the M4 iMac as “the world’s best all-in-one for AI,” aimed at those managing intensive workflows or multiple applications.
All new Apple Intelligence features
The M4 iMac also introduces Apple Intelligence which promises a suite of AI-based tools designed to simplify productivity. Apple highlights on-device processing for privacy, while complex tasks are supported by Apple’s Private Cloud Compute.
With system-wide Writing Tools, users can rewrite, summarize, and proofread text, and Apple plans to expand these features over time. Upcoming additions, like Image Playground for creative edits, Genmoji for custom emojis, and ChatGPT-enhanced Siri with IP masking, could add further versatility.
Bold new colors, minor hardware changes
Design-wise, the iMac’s thin, all-in-one look remains unchanged, but Apple has introduced a new palette—green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver. These colors also feature bold backs and more subtle fronts to help users focus on the display. But while these colors add visual flair, they’re not groundbreaking changes.
Accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse are also now USB-C compatible, though the Magic Mouse still charges from the bottom, a design choice Apple continues to stand by.
And for users needing extra connectivity, the higher-end iMac models now feature up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports, supporting up to two 6K displays. This addition might appeal to professionals who work with multiple screens or need expanded peripheral options.
Practical Display and Camera Updates
The 24-inch 4.5K Retina display now includes an optional $200 nano-texture glass for reduced glare, which Apple suggests will benefit users in brightly lit spaces.
Video calls also see improvement with a 12MP Center Stage camera that keeps users centered on screen, while Desk View provides a top-down angle for remote presentations or creative demonstrations.
Paired with three microphones and six speakers, the iMac’s setup is positioned to deliver clear, professional-quality audio and video.
Final Thoughts
Starting at $1,299 (or $1,249 for education), the M4 iMac is available for preorder now, with availability starting November 8.
For Intel and M1 users, the M4’s performance gains, AI features, and added connectivity could make this feel like a worthwhile upgrade. For M3 iMac users, however, the changes may feel less substantial, offering a refined experience rather than a transformative one.
For those looking to explore new AI tools and benefit from faster performance, the M4 iMac offers appealing enhancements. But for users satisfied with their current setup, this release might feel more like a welcome refinement than an essential upgrade.
Kelechi Edeh
Image credit: Apple
