Apple yesterday announced a completely redesigned 24-inch iMac with the M1 Apple silicon chip. The new iMac, the first major redesign of the Mac desktop computer since 2012, has undergone several changes from the previous generation.
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In the aftermath of the event, a few new features and tidbits may have disappeared under the radar, so we’ve compiled this list of some of the less-discussed features and changes of the new 24-inch iMac.
First Mac with built-in spatial audio
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The 24-inch iMac is the first Mac with built-in Dolby Atmos spatial audio. This is made possible by six brand new high-fidelity speakers that work together with force-canceling woofers. At the same time, Apple says the new speakers and woofers create “the best speakers on any Mac.” Spatial Audio is available on compatible iPhone and iPad devices with Dolby Atmos content and is now coming to the Mac for the first time.
First iMac with WiFi 6
The M1 Apple silicon MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini released in November were the first Macs to support the new and faster WiFi 6 protocol. With M1 now on the iMac, the 24-inch iMac will become the first Mac desktop computer to support WiFi 6.
Headphone jack on the side
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The new 24-inch iMac has a significantly thinner design compared to the previous generation. While visually appealing, this new design challenged where to place the 3.5mm headphone jack. Normally, the headphone jack is placed on the back of the iMac, but on the new 24-inch model, the jack is on the left.
Ethernet port on power adapter
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Another problem presented by the new thin design of the iMac was where to place the Ethernet port. Apple’s solution to the dilemma is to put the Ethernet port directly into the power adapter. Apple says this new “cool new innovation” means users can keep their desks less cluttered, while still enjoying the benefits of Ethernet.
No SD card slot
Previous generation IMac models had an SD card slot reader on the back. The new design of the 24-inch iMac made this a challenge. In theory, Apple could have easily placed the SD card reader on the side like the headphone jack, but instead decided to remove it completely.
These are, of course, just a few of the many new features of the 24-inch iMac. You can learn more about the new iMac and everything else Apple announced at its “Spring Loaded” event using our roundup.