MAC TO THE FUTURE
Apple unveils redesigned iMac with range of new colours at Spring Loaded event
APPLE on Tuesday unveiled a new iMac computer powered by its own silicon chips.
The high-powered PC boasts lightning-fast performance and a range of colours for buyers to choose from.
🔵 Read our Apple Event 2021 live blog for the latest updates
5
It was showcased during Apple's virtual Spring Loaded event on April 20.
The key news is that it's powered by Apple's own M1 chip – a blisteringly fast processor launched last year.
"This isn't just an upgrade, it's a breakthrough," said Apple chief Tim Cook, speaking during the keynote.
Apple says the M1 chip has made it possible to reduce the size of the iMac significantly.
5
And due to the improved power efficiency, the thermal system has been replaced with two small fans.
Alongside reduced component sizes thanks to M1, it means the machine is exceptionally thin, at just 11.5mm wide.
The new Mac has a 1080 HD camera for Facetime, double the quality of previous models.
It uses artificial intelligence to adjust your webcam picture on the fly, according to Apple.
The company has opted for a radical redesign, shrinking the PC's bezels around the display and cutting down the metal “chin” from the bottom.
It looks quite similar to the Pro Display XDR monitor that Apple released in 2019.
That means it’s ultra-lightweight and thin, with a flat back and squared-off corners instead of a curved rear design.
5
All in all, it’s arguably the biggest design shift for the iMac since 2012.
The new Mac will be available in seven colours, including Silver, Space Gray, Green, Sky Blue, and Rose Gold.
The PC starts at $1299 and is available for pre-order on April 30. It'll ship in mid-May.
It follows the launch last November of the first iMac and MacBook to run on Apple’s M1 computer chip.
The company finally broke away from fellow US tech giant Intel, who had made chips for Apple PCs for 15 years.
Apple said at the time that its M1 chip offered 3.5 times faster CPU performance and up to six times faster GPU performance than Intel's chips.
Analysts said the chip's inclusion in yet another Mac has "raised the bar" for Apple's rivals.
5
Paolo Pescatore, of PP Foresight, told The Sun: "We are now seeing the fruits of Apple Silicon, by leveraging this system on a chip architecture across its portfolio.
"The M1 is transforming its products, form factors and capabilities far beyond what users can do today."
"Apple is further stealing a march and raising the bar much higher for its rivals."
Tuesday's event also featured new iPads, a new Apple TV 2021 and the long-awaited Apple AirTags trackers.
The Cupertino firm is also due to officially unveil iOS 14.5, the latest major update to the iPhone software.
It's packed with new features, including fresh emoji, additional Siri voices and the ability to unlock your mobile while wearing a mask.
5
Spider gets trapped INSIDE Apple iMac computer screen – and owner has no idea how to get it out
Most read in Phones & Gadgets
In other news, Samsung has launched a "try before you buy" scheme for its most expensive mobiles to date.
Apple is rumoured to be working on a foldable phone to rival Samsung.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
And, check out this juicy new iPhone 13 leak.
What do you make of Apple's new gadgets? Let us know in the comments!
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]
Topics