Apple’s ‘Spring Loaded’ 2021 event was full of interesting announcements, including some highly anticipated (AirTags!) And some welcome surprises (rainbow iMacs!). Let’s dive into the best of the new.
Colorful iMacs
While we knew iPads were expected at the event, perhaps the biggest announcement was the unveiling of a new line of iMacs featuring a slimmer bezel design and, most importantly, a slew of colors. I mean look at these things!
I’m very excited that colorful desktop computers are about to come back into fashion, but the new iMacs also represent a giant leap in performance. Unsurprisingly, they are powered by Apple’s custom M1 chip, which means they should provide a significant performance boost over the previous generation when using optimized software.
Apple also improved the sound on the new iMac with dual force canceling woofers and separate tweeters. The device also has three microphones and a FaceTime HD camera with AI enhancements for your Zoom calls.
But let’s not kid ourselves, you just get one for the colors, right?
The new iMac costs $ 1,299 and will be available for pre-order from April 30 and by the end of May.
AirTags for item tracking
And last but not least. We first heard about AirTags in April 2019, but they are now a reality.
AirTags go a step further than traditional Bluetooth trackers by showing you the exact distance and direction of your lost item, using Ultra Wideband radio technology. They are also linked to Apple’s ‘Find My’ network, so you can find lost items through other Apple device users who may be within range of the tracker.
Best of all, it only costs $ 29, which is pretty cheap as far as new Apple products go. Or $ 99, if you want four. AirTag preorders begin April 23, and the tracker will be available April 30. You can even order them with custom engravings.
By the way, Apple made a pretty good AirTag ad:
An M1 powered iPad Pro
Apple continues to blur the line between the Mac and the iPad with the new iPad Pro. The latest generation of the device also features the M1 processor, which Apple claims offers a 50% CPU boost and 40% GPU improvement over last year’s model.
But performance updates were a given. More interesting is the use of Mini LED technology for the first time on an Apple device, although it is exclusive to the 12.9-inch model. If you are not familiar, Mini LED displays are essentially just luxury LED displays with numerous backlight zones.
This means that the LEDs illuminating the panel can be turned off independently in different zones, bringing it close to the contrast of OLED screens, although it cannot turn off individual pixels like the latest technology does. But for most content, it should be a big leap in performance.
The new iPads also support Thunderbolt / USB-4, an ultra-wide front camera that can track you as you move around the frame, and 5G connectivity. The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $ 799, while the 12.9-inch model will set you back $ 1099.
A purple iPhone
The iPhone 12 and 12 mini are now purple. This is a good thing. See:
Prince’s mind will be happy. Pre-orders start Friday and will be available April 30.
Improved Apple TV 4K
Apple put an A12 Bionic in the Apple TV for more processing crackers and created a nice new remote.
The more powerful processor enabled a number of interesting upgrades. First, it can now play HDR content at up to 60fps. But more interesting for those who care about image quality is the ability to calibrate your screen with the iPhone’s camera.
The remote now has a circular touchpad with clickable buttons around it and is made from recycled aluminum. Most importantly, it will finally get a mute button.
Apple doubles down on podcasts
Apple’s Podcasts app today underwent a major redesign, with each show having its own dedicated page, with a new browse feature to make it easier to find new shows.
But more importantly, Apple also announced that users would be able to subscribe to podcasts, allowing creators to make some money from their audience. Some of the subscription features include ad-free episodes, early access to new series, and premium content.
The new design and new features will be launched in May.
Check out the whole thing
Did you miss the event and have an hour to kill? You can check out the whole thing below or by heading here.
In fact, Apple was kind enough to include timestamps so you can skip to the parts you’re interested in.
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