Highlights
- Apple is expected to announce a packed hardware lineup.
- It includes new MacBooks, an iMac, a redesigned Mac mini and a new iPad mini.
- The product launch is scheduled for November 1st.
- Shipping delays were reported for the custom configurations of current models.
In a recent update from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, it looks like Apple is gearing up for a big hardware release this fall. While the keynote event is still expected in late October, the actual product launch could happen on November 1st.
The lineup is packed, including a –
- low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 chip
- higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips
- new iMac with M4
- redesigned Mac mini that comes with both M4 and M4 Pro options
Plus, a new iPad mini is also on the way.
Interestingly, the rumoured update for the lowest-end iPad appears to be off the table. Gurman no longer mentions it, which suggests that a refresh for the iPad 11 may not happen until 2024.
This lines up with predictions from other analysts who believe the product won’t arrive until early next year.
Looking ahead, Gurman mentions in his latest newsletter that Apple has more products planned for the first half of 2025, including:
- 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs with M4
- A new iPhone SE
- New 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models
- New Magic Keyboards for iPad Air
- A refreshed version of the AirTag
Additionally, new Mac Studio and Mac Pro models with M4 chips are in development. The Mac Studio is expected mid-year, while the Mac Pro will likely arrive by the end of 2025.
This fits with previous expectations, and after that, Apple will be back to its usual cycle of releasing iPhone 17 and M5 Macs in the fall.
In a separate update on his X (previously Twitter) account, Gurman revealed that custom configurations of the current M3 MacBook Pro, M2 Mac mini and M3 iMac are seeing significant shipping delays.
Custom configurations of all MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini models are showing shipment delays until the end of October. I’ve reported several times that new versions are coming this fall. MacBook Airs seeing some configuration delays as well — but too soon for a refresh there. pic.twitter.com/td0jSHVIid
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 5, 2024
What Gurman’s update means is that if you place an order now, don’t expect it until the end of the month.
These kinds of delays are common when Apple is about to release new models. For example, iPad mini stock dropped ahead of Apple’s September event. Experts usually consider this to be a good sign that Apple is winding down production of custom configurations in preparation for new releases.
On another note, a 9to5Mac recent report informs that all base models of the upcoming M4 Macs are expected to come with at least 16GB of RAM by default. This is a significant change from Apple’s tradition of including just 8GB since 2016.
FAQs
What new Apple announcements are expected in late October 2024?
Answer. Apple is expected to announce a new 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 chip, higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, a new iMac with M4, a redesigned Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro options, and a new iPad mini.
What are Apple’s plans for the first half of 2025?
Answer. In the first half of 2025, Apple plans to release 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs with M4, a new iPhone SE, new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models, new Magic Keyboards for iPad Air, a refreshed version of the AirTag, and new Mac Studio and Mac Pro models with M4 chips.
Why are there shipping delays for custom configurations of current Apple models?
Answer. Shipping delays for custom configurations of the current M3 MacBook Pro, M2 Mac mini, and M3 iMac suggest that Apple is winding down production in preparation for new releases, a common occurrence when new models are about to be launched.
What are the Likely features of upcoming M4 Macs ?
Answer.Gurman’s report suggests a set of new M4 Macs will be showcased during the event. The lineup is expected to include: new version of the budget-friendly 14-inch MacBook Pro equipped with the M4 chip.
Higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models powered by the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips for enhanced performance.
An updated iMac featuring the M4 chip for a desktop powerhouse.
A redesigned Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro variants, catering to power users and professionals.
The Macs are expected to come with performance improvements in comparison to M2 predecessors.
Users can expect faster processing, improved graphics capabilities, and enhanced efficiency.
Is the iPad mini also expected with a new design ?
Answer. The November 1st event is also expected to introduce the most-awaited iPad mini 7.
Gurman hints at a potential redesign with a sleeker look and a more modern aesthetic.
The new iPad mini could support improved performance because of the powerful A-series chip upgrade.
Read More: iPad Mini 7 OLED Display
Read More: iPad Mini 7 Latest Upgrades
Read More: Unverified M4 MacBook Pro Packaging Leak Suggests New Upgrades
Read More: M4 MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac Are Set to 2024 Launch Says Report
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