Apple is expected to announce a wide array of new products in the coming months, highlighted by the introduction of M4-based Macs and an updated iPad mini. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, these announcements will likely be made toward the end of October, with at least some devices set to launch as soon as November 1, 2024.
One of the flagship products in this lineup will be the M4-powered MacBook Pro. Gurman reports that Apple will introduce a low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring the M4 chip, alongside higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch models that will come equipped with M4 Pro and M4 Max chip options. The new MacBook Pro models are expected to include mini-LED displays and offer improved performance, building on Apple’s already powerful M-series chip architecture. The codenames for these MacBook Pro models are J604 for the base 14-inch model and J614 and J616 for the higher-end versions.
The upcoming Mac mini refresh is another significant update to watch. For the first time in years, the Mac mini will reportedly receive a complete redesign, with a more compact form factor resembling the size of an Apple TV. Despite its smaller size, the Mac mini will pack a punch, offering configurations with either the M4 chip or the higher-performing M4 Pro. This new model, bearing the codename J773, represents a continuation of Apple’s effort to expand its Mac lineup with entry-level and more powerful options.
Apple’s iMac is also expected to receive an update, transitioning from the M1 chip directly to the M4. While the iMac will retain its current all-in-one design, the introduction of the M4 chip will provide significant performance improvements, especially in terms of speed and energy efficiency. The iMac, codenamed J623, is not expected to feature any dramatic changes in terms of chassis, but customers will appreciate the power boost provided by the 3nm-based M4 chip.
The iPad mini 7, which has been subject to numerous rumors over the past year, is also reportedly on the horizon for a November release. This would mark the first update to Apple’s smallest tablet since 2021, and while the specifications remain unclear, there is speculation that the device could feature an M2 chip or a significant upgrade from the A15 Bionic chip found in its predecessor. The iPad mini’s codename is J410, and it is expected to remain a popular option for those who favor a compact tablet experience.
Apple’s hardware releases will be complemented by new software capabilities, particularly with the rollout of Apple Intelligence. Gurman notes that Apple Intelligence, which is expected to bring enhanced AI-driven features to devices, will begin rolling out on October 28 as part of iOS 18.1. Initially, these features will be available for newer devices, such as the iPhone 15 Pro Series, M1-based iPads, and M1-based Macs, with further updates planned for 2025.
Not all Apple Intelligence features will be available immediately with the iOS 18.1 update. Integration with ChatGPT and the introduction of Genmoji will arrive later with iOS 18.2, while more advanced Siri upgrades are expected to roll out with iOS 18.4 in early 2025. These upgrades will allow Siri to perform more complex tasks, including enhanced app control and better access to personal data to answer user queries.
Apple’s plans for 2025 extend beyond this upcoming product lineup. Gurman reports that next year’s first half will see several new devices launch, including 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models powered by the M4 chip, updated 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models, and a redesigned iPhone SE with Apple Intelligence integration. Additionally, a new version of the AirTag and revamped Magic Keyboards are also expected to debut alongside these refreshed devices.
While Apple’s desktop offerings will receive significant updates this fall, power users may have to wait a bit longer for more robust options like the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. Both of these high-end machines, slated to feature M4 chips, are expected to launch in mid-to-late 2025. The Mac Studio is anticipated around mid-year, with the Mac Pro expected to follow later in the second half of 2025.
(via Bloomberg)
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