Insiders say that next week Apple will release new MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac desktops, all equipped with the M4 chip to support AI tasks. The MacBook Air will be updated in the spring next year, followed by the Mac Studio in early summer. The most expensive Mac Pro is also undergoing upgrades, adding ray tracing and enhanced neural engine in addition to the M4 chip. There may also be a new entry-level iPad released next year
According to a well-known financial journalist tracking Apple news, citing sources, Apple is planning to not only announce the first batch of AI features through the release of the latest operating system next week, but also to launch a series of Mac computers equipped with M4 chips to better support AI functions.
This will include new MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac desktop computers. The appearance of the MacBook Pro and iMac will be similar to the current versions, while the Mac mini will undergo a major redesign for the first time in over a decade, becoming smaller and more like an Apple TV set-top box.
Insiders also revealed that an upgraded version of the ultra-thin notebook computer MacBook Air with the M4 chip is expected to be launched between January and March 2025. The last update was in March of this year with the M3 chip, and a 15-inch version with the M2 chip was introduced in June last year.
The appearance of the latest MacBook Air next year will not change much, with both the 13-inch and 15-inch models featuring the new generation M4 chip. Some analysts suggest that Apple is taking a "rare move" by upgrading the entire Mac computer lineup to the same generation of chip, enhancing performance in handling AI tasks.
During the launch of the new Mac products next week, Apple may focus on introducing the artificial intelligence features of the M4 chip. AI is expected to become an important part of Apple's future product strategy, as the upgraded iPad mini supporting Apple Intelligence was just released this month.
In addition, at the spring event in 2025, Apple may plan to introduce a new entry-level iPad (or the 11th generation iPad), an improved version of the iPhone SE, a new iPad Air, and an upgraded iPad keyboard.
The higher-end, professional-oriented desktop Mac Studio without a display screen, originally intended to be launched alongside the MacBook Air, may now be delayed and revealed between March and June next year.
Apple is also continuing to develop a version of its most expensive computer, the Mac Pro, with the M4 chip. In addition to chip upgrades, significant updates for Mac Studio and Mac Pro in the future will include adding ray tracing and enhancing neural engines to improve AI performance.
There are also reports that when developing next year's iPhone models, Apple may include a thinner version to replace the iPhone 16 Plus. At some point next year, a new home device with a small square screen may also be introduced as Apple continues to enter the smart home market