Apple launched a slew of new hardware and software on Tuesday, including redesigned iMacs powered by Apple’s M1 processor, the highly anticipated AirTags item trackers, an updated Apple TV, and other announcements. The M1 chip is also being added to new iPad Pro models with optional 5G capabilities.
Why it mattersApple is starting product launches later than usual, perhaps due to a combination of factors, including the global shortage of chips.
Here’s what Apple has announced so far:
New iMacs feature Apple’s M1 processor and a completely new design that makes the all-in-one desktop slimmer and offers it in seven colors. The 24-inch screen is about the same size as the previous 21-inch model due to the thinner bezels. Apple is also touting a new 1080p camera, noise-canceling microphones, and software improvements for better video calling.
- The new iMacs feature an optional Touch ID compatible keyboard, bringing fingerprint recognition to the iMac for the first time.
- It starts at $ 1,299, and will ship in the second half of May, with pre-orders starting April 30. The base model comes in four colors, with all seven colors available on the $ 1,499 model.
- Thought bubble: The M1-powered Macs out there have been critically acclaimed, but this is the first time Apple has married the new processors with completely redesigned hardware and the iMac was in need of a revamp.
The iPad Pro now includes 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 has a brighter mini LED display.
- The 10-inch model starts at $ 799, while the 12.9-inch model with the new display technology starts at $ 1099. Both models will ship in the second half of May, with pre-orders starting April 30.
- Thought bubbleApple continues to bring the iPad and Mac lines closer together under the hood, while maintaining separate operating systems and reserving touchscreen capabilities for the iPad. Also look for the mini LED display technology to expand further into the iPad and other product lines in the coming years.
Apple TV 4K gets an upgrade, including a more powerful Apple processor and redesigned remote. Plus A new season of Ted Lasso is coming to the Apple TV + subscription service on July 23. It comes in two models, starting at $ 179, and will be available in May, although pre-orders begin April 30.
- Thought bubble: The hardware updates are fairly modest, but many pandemically weary people were eager for some fresh Ted Lasso.
AirTag, a $ 29 circular product tracker that uses Apple’s Find My app to track physical objects such as keys, backpacks, etc. AirTags will be available April 30 and also sold in a 4-pack for $ 99.
- Thought bubble: AirTags can be super handy and Apple can integrate better than, say, Tile. But that’s also why Tile and others are complaining to regulators that Apple is abusing its monopoly.
- “We welcome competition as long as it is fair competition,” said CJ Prober, CEO of Tile, in a statement. “Given Apple’s well-documented history of using its platform advantage to unfairly restrict competition for its products, we are unfortunately skeptical.”
Changes to the Apple Card allowing anyone over the age of 13 in a household to use the credit card and allowing couples to build equal credit on a shared account.
- Thought bubble: Hopefully, this more equitable approach will be more widely adopted in the credit card industry.
There is also a new purple color for iPhone 12, available on April 30th.
Check back regularly for regular updates.