Apple Inc. is preparing to launch its entire Mac lineup in a bid to restore the sluggish computer sales. The company plans to introduce a new range of in-house processors focused on showcasing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.
The initiative follows the release of the first Macs featuring M3 chips just five months ago. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Apple is already in advanced stages of production for the next iteration – the M4 processor. These new chips are expected to debut in at least three main variants, with Apple aiming to incorporate them into every Mac model.
The overhaul comes at a crucial juncture for Mac sales, which saw a 27% decline in the past fiscal year, following a peak in 2022. Despite efforts to renew the Mac business with an M3-focused launch event last October, the performance improvements over previous models were marginal.
Apple’s push into AI is also seen as a response to its competitors, such as Microsoft and Google, who have made significant strides in the field. The integration of AI capabilities into its products forms part of Apple’s broader strategy.
The company is reportedly targeting a late-year launch for the updated computers, extending into early the following year. The lineup includes new iMacs, a 14-inch MacBook Pro, high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, and Mac minis – all featuring the M4 chips. However, plans are subject to change, and Apple has declined to comment on its future releases.
Report indicated that the announcement has had a positive impact on Apple’s stock, with shares rising by 4% following the news.
The accelerated refresh schedule will see updates to the iMac and MacBook Pro, which were just revamped in October, while the Mac mini saw its last upgrade in January 2023.
Apple intends to continue the rollout of M4 Macs throughout 2025, including updates to the MacBook Air, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. The M4 chip lineup comprises entry-level (Donan), high-performance (Brava), and top-end (Hidra) variants, all emphasizing AI processing capabilities.
For the Mac Studio, Apple is testing versions with both M3-era chips and variations of the M4 Brava processor. The Mac Pro, though lower-selling, is set to receive the new Hidra chip, addressing concerns raised by some customers regarding the specifications of Apple’s in-house chips.
It has been reported again that, this year, Apple’s primary focus is on integrating new AI features across its product range. These enhancements are designed to run directly on the devices themselves, with faster chips driving the improvements. The company plans to preview these features at its annual developer conference in June, alongside AI-focused upgrades to this year’s iPhone processor.
Apple’s transition to in-house chips, known as Apple Silicon, has been a successful endeavor thus far. It aims to unify hardware and software, moving away from Intel processors to enhance performance and streamline device design. The use of Arm Holdings Plc architecture, similar to that of iPhone and iPad processors, enables thinner products with improved battery life.
Stay glued to gheducate.com for more developments on this new move by Apple Inc.
