Apple on Tuesday unveiled a myriad of new hardware and software, including redesigned iMacs powered by Apple’s M1 processor, the long-awaited AirTags article trackers, an updated Apple TV, among other announcements. The M1 chip is also added to new iPad Pro models with optional 5G capability.
Why it matters: Apple is launching products later than usual, perhaps due to a mix of factors, including the worldwide scarcity of chips.
This is what Apple has announced so far:
New iMac’s features Apple’s M1 processor, as well as a complete redesign that slims down the all-in-one desktop while being presented in seven colors. The 24-inch screen fits in the same size as the previous 21-inch model due to thinner edges. Apple also offers a new 1080p camera, noise-canceling microphones and software enhancements for better video calling.
- The new iMacs have an optional Touch ID-enabled keyboard, which provides fingerprint recognition to the iMac for the first time.
- It starts at $ 1,299 and ships in the second half of May, with pre-orders set for April 30. The base model is available in four colors, with all seven shades available on the $ 1,499 model.
- Thought bubble: The M1-powered Macs already there are widely praised, but this is the first time that Apple has married the new processors to the completely redesigned hardware, and had to overhaul the iMac.
The iPad Pro now features the same M1 chip used in the latest Macs, optional 5G wireless technology and support for up to 2 terabytes of storage. The larger screen model features a brighter mini-LED screen.
- Thought bubble: Apple continues to bring the iPad and Mac lines closer together under the hood, while maintaining separate operating systems and the touchscreen capability for the iPad. Also look at the mini-LED screen technology to further expand to the iPad and other product lines in the coming years.
Apple TV 4K get an upgrade, including a more powerful Apple processor and redesigned remote control. Plus, A new season of Ted Lasso arrives on July 23 for the Apple TV + subscription service. It will be in two models, starting at $ 179 and will be available in May, though pre-orders start on April 30th.
- Thought bubble: The hardware updates are pretty modest, but many pandemic people are eager for fresh Ted Lasso.
AirTag, a $ 29 product tracker that uses Apple’s Find My app to search for physical objects such as keys, backpacks, etc. to keep up. AirTags will be available from April 30 and will also be sold in a 4-pack for $ 99.
- Thought bubble: AirTags can be very useful and Apple can integrate more tightly than Tile says. But that’s also why Tile and others are complaining to regulators that Apple is abusing its monopoly.
Changes to the Apple Card allow anyone over the age of 13 in a household to use the credit card and also allow couples to build credit equally on a shared account.
- Thought bubble: Hopefully this more equitable approach will be applied more widely in the credit card industry.
There’s also a new purple color for iPhone 12, available on April 30th.
Check back for regular updates.