Apple might launch M4 Macs next week

Apple seems ready to unveil its next generation of Macs featuring the new M4 chips, and it looks like we won’t have to wait much longer. Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, who often has reliable insider information, recently shared that an “M4 Mac launch” is scheduled for next week. Although he didn’t give an exact date, it’s safe to say the tech world is gearing up for some big news.

In line with what I’ve been reporting for a while, Apple will very soon launch its new Macs. There should be some hands-ons outside of Cupertino and online video. I expect the M4 iMac, MacBook Pro, revamped Mac mini and USB-C accessories. https://t.co/I1bDoPjGiP

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 22, 2024

What we know so far

Gurman posted that Apple has a “busy week” lined up, mentioning that it will start with “Apple Intelligence” on Monday, followed by the M4 Mac announcement, and then earnings results on Thursday. Additionally, Apple has invited journalists and content creators to a hands-on event in Los Angeles next Wednesday, which suggests that the M4 Macs will be announced before then.

While it is unclear whether Apple will hold an online event or simply issue a press release, the timeframe for inviting media to an online event is closing. Last year, Apple hosted the “Scary Fast” event online in late October, so they might take a similar approach this year. We’ll find out soon enough.

What to expect from the M4 Mac lineup

Based on Gurman’s information and other leaks, here’s what Apple is expected to announce:

• 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Chip: An entry-level model with an additional Thunderbolt port compared to the current version.
• 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro Models: These will come with options for the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, offering greater performance.
• Updated iMac: Featuring the M4 chip, this new model will likely replace the current iMac with more efficient processing power.
• New Mac Mini: Rumored to have a smaller design, similar to an Apple TV, with two front-facing USB-C ports. It will offer options for both M4 and M4 Pro chips.
• USB-C Magic Accessories: Apple is also expected to update its Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Keyboard to USB-C.

The entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro has allegedly already been leaked through some unboxing videos earlier this month, where it was identified as a November 2024 model. If these videos are legitimate, it means that the first M4 Macs might not reach customers until next month, even if they are announced next week.

It’s still a bit unclear how Apple plans to announce these new products (Image credit) Is the Mac Mini arriving sooner?

Adding another twist to the story, well-known leaker Sonny Dickson claimed that the new Mac Mini could launch even sooner—possibly this week. Dickson’s track record is a mixed bag, though. While he’s shared some accurate details in the past, not all of his predictions have panned out, particularly when it comes to hardware releases. Still, it’s worth keeping an eye out.

Online event or press release?

It’s still a bit unclear how Apple plans to announce these new products. Last year, the “Scary Fast” event was streamed online, and Apple could take a similar route for the M4 Mac launch. However, there’s also a chance they could go for a simpler announcement on the Apple Newsroom website.

Regardless of the method, the window for sending out invites to an online event is closing quickly, so we’ll have our answer soon. What’s clear, though, is that Apple is pushing forward with the next generation of its Mac lineup, and the upcoming M4 Macs will be the latest step in their ongoing shift away from Intel processors.

The launch of the M4 Macs is significant for a couple of reasons (Image credit) Why the M4 Mac launch matters

The launch of the M4 Macs is significant for a couple of reasons. First, it continues Apple’s rapid progression in designing its own processors, with the M4 chips likely offering better performance and efficiency compared to the current M3 series. This means improvements in battery life, speed, and overall capability for users.

Second, it’s also about the competitive landscape. Apple is looking to stay ahead of the curve, and a new generation of Macs is a big part of that strategy. Competitors like Microsoft and Google are also pushing AI integrations and hardware improvements, so Apple is aiming to maintain its edge, especially among creative professionals and enterprise users.

What we’re watching for

For Apple enthusiasts and tech industry observers, next week will be one to watch closely. How much of a performance boost will the M4 Macs deliver? Will we see any surprises, like a major redesign of the iMac or the Mac Mini? And what about the hands-on event in Los Angeles—could it hint at something even more exciting?

Mark Gurman has been right before, and his updates provide some tantalizing clues about what’s ahead. But as always with Apple, there’s still a bit of mystery.

Featured image credit: Kerem Gülen/Ideogram