A “Dramatic” Mac Redesign Might Debut Later This Year

Would you be surprised to learn that Apple plans to release new Macs later this year? Probably not, as we typically see several new Mac models annually. However, what’s more unexpected is the recent idea that at least one Mac will undergo a dramatic redesign — and we might already have a hint about which models will receive this special treatment.

This insight comes from Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman. In the paid section of his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman states that Apple will introduce a range of new Macs in 2024 and 2025, refreshing almost the entire lineup. This year, we can expect updated versions of the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini, according to Gurman. Following these, the MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro will receive updates in 2025. Notably, this contradicts recent speculation that the M4 MacBook Pro might be delayed until next year.

Nevertheless, it appears that most of these updates will be relatively minor, with the M4 chip being the primary focus in each case. While the M4 chip offers a meaningful performance boost, as seen in the latest iPad Pro, few would argue that simply changing the chip constitutes a major upgrade.

This is where the redesign comes into play. Gurman mentions that while the M4 overhaul will mainly enhance the computers’ power, at least one Mac model will undergo more significant changes.

Despite the mystery surrounding this announcement, it suggests that we could see more substantial changes than just new chips in the next batch of Macs. However, many questions remain unanswered for now.

Making the Case for the Mac Pro

Gurman’s statement leaves much unsaid. For instance, we don’t know what dramatic changes entail or how many Macs will be affected, other than at least one device will be updated. Yet, we can make some educated guesses despite the uncertainty.

Since the first Apple silicon Macs launched in 2020, only the Mac mini and Mac Pro have not seen significant redesigns. The MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and iMac have all been updated with new designs since Apple silicon chips debuted. The Mac Studio, being a newer device launched after Apple silicon, is unlikely to be redesigned.

Both the Mac mini and Mac Pro are strong candidates for a new design. Even though the Mac Pro was updated in 2023, it still uses the same design as its 2019 predecessor that featured Intel chips.

In 2019, the large chassis was necessary for better cooling. However, the Mac Pro is now more efficient thanks to Apple silicon, rendering much of that cooling space redundant. Apple silicon also reduces the need for user upgrades, contrary to the Mac Pro’s modular design.

This suggests the Mac Pro could be redesigned into a more compact shape, given the reduced need for cooling and modularity. However, Apple must ensure the Mac Pro does not encroach too closely on the Mac Studio’s territory — a factor that might have influenced Apple’s decision to retain the Mac Pro’s 2019 chassis in its 2023 model.

The Mac Mini is a Possibility

What about the Mac mini? There has been much talk of a redesigned model in the past — rumors that never materialized. For instance, in 2021, leaker Jon Prosser claimed Apple was working on a slimmer Mac mini with a plexiglass-like top. Yet, when Apple updated the Mac mini in 2023, it kept the same familiar design we’ve seen for years.

Could this be Apple’s chance to innovate with its smallest desktop Mac? Given how efficient Apple silicon chips are, Apple could likely reduce the Mac mini’s size without affecting performance.

But does a thinner design qualify as a dramatic change? The Mac Pro seems a more likely candidate for this kind of major overhaul, given the mismatch between its current design and its chip. Redesigning the Mac Pro to better fit its chip while keeping it distinct from the Mac Studio could be a significant challenge for Apple — and one that would surely capture attention if executed well.

We’ll get a clearer picture later this year. The 2024 Macs will likely launch in the fall, perhaps around October. If none of the new products feature a dramatic new look, it will support the case for a significant redesign of the Mac Pro in the new year. Keep your eyes open.

Apple Will Upgrade Every Mac Model to M4

Are you waiting to see if your favorite Mac model will get the latest M4 chip upgrade before buying a new computer?

Good news: whether you use a MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, or even a Mac Pro, the M4 will soon be available for your preferred Mac.

According to a new report from Bloomberg’s Apple insider Mark Gurman, Apple plans to introduce its M4 Silicon chipset across all Mac computer models.

Since Apple released its first M4 product earlier this year with the iPad Pro, Mac users have been eagerly anticipating when the new powerful chipset would be available for their preferred Mac desktop or laptop — and whether the M4 would come to their favorite Mac model.

Apple seemingly skipped upgrading some of its Mac models, such as the Mac Mini and Mac Studio, with the M3 chip. The latest models in those lines still use the M2 chip.

When Will the New M4 Macs Come Out?

Consumers looking to purchase a new MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac will be the first to get an M4 Mac. According to Gurman, Apple plans to release M4 models for these lines later this year.

Current MacBook Pro, Mac mini, or iMac users looking to upgrade should probably wait if they want the latest model. Last year, Apple held a rare October event just before Halloween to launch the M3 MacBook Pros and iMacs. It wouldn’t be surprising if Apple hosted a similar event this year to unveil the first M4 Macs before the 2024 holiday season.

MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro users will have to wait a bit longer for the M4 chip. These models will be upgraded to M4 in 2025.

Given the latest MacBook Air refresh earlier this year, the release date for the M4 version makes sense. Apple launched the M3 MacBook Air line in March.

Gurman notes that Apple will emphasize the benefits of the new M4 chip in its marketing for the new M4 Mac lines. Apple states that the M4 is its most powerful neural engine yet, designed to provide the processing power needed for the company’s upcoming AI features.

However, Gurman adds that at least one Mac model will see more dramatic changes beyond just the M4 upgrade. With speculation about the M4 Mac release now satisfied, it appears Apple fans have something new to anticipate.