Apple is gearing up for a swift update to its Mac lineup later this year with the anticipated launch of the new M4 series processors. According to reports, Apple is on the verge of finalizing the production of the M4 chip, which is expected to power all models across the Mac lineup. Notably, the M4 chip is not only poised to deliver enhanced performance but also introduce AI features tailored for Mac users.
The report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple is making significant strides towards the completion of the M4 processor, with sources indicating that it will be utilized to refresh the entire Mac lineup. This move by Apple to swiftly overhaul its Mac offerings is particularly intriguing given that the M3-powered Macs were introduced less than six months ago.
The integration of AI capabilities is set to play a pivotal role in Apple’s future devices and ecosystem, and it appears that the M4 chip will be optimally equipped to handle these tasks. However, there arises a question regarding users who recently purchased M3-powered Macs – will they have access to the forthcoming AI features?
Expectations are high for Apple to address these queries and shed light on the AI advancements across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS at the upcoming WWDC 2024 keynote in June. In the interim, Apple is likely to prioritize these upgrades, especially considering that the M3 lineup did not deliver significant improvements over the M2 series. This indicates that Apple is placing considerable emphasis on the M4 chip, potentially leading to the introduction of new iMacs, MacBook Pros (both 14 and 16 inches), and Mac Minis equipped with the M4-series processors later this year.
The decline in Mac sales over recent quarters suggests that the incremental upgrades to the Mac lineup may not be compelling enough to entice consumers, possibly influenced by the continued rise in prices of these devices. While Apple recently unveiled the all-new 15-inch MacBook Air powered by the M3 processor, indications suggest that the company may not be ready to introduce the M4 chip to its Air lineup just yet. More details regarding Apple’s AI strategy are anticipated to be unveiled at WWDC 2024 in June, and preceding that event, announcements regarding the new iPad Pro and Air lineup are expected next month.
