Earlier this month, Apple gave us the first look at its new
iMac. To say that people were surprised would be an understatement. What we expected was the tech giant’s new iMac with M1 chip in a 24-inch but otherwise familiar all-in-one package. What we got was precisely that, but simultaneously served up in a veritable rainbow of colors.
Ultimately, this is something of a nod to the original
iMac G3s of the 1990s. Yet, Apple’s latest newcomer has nevertheless turned countless heads since its April 20 unveiling. Either way, the 24-inch iMac certainly has plenty to shout about. Not least is the arrival of Apple’s blisteringly fast breakthrough M1 processor. It also boasts the best camera, microphones, and speakers ever to grace the wider Mac line-up.
Almost overshadowing all of this, though, remains Apple’s decision to introduce six eye-popping new color finishes.
Eye-Popping Color Choices
Silver and white have been Apple’s go-to colors for the iMac for almost two decades. Since the G4 arrived back in 2002, the iMac line-up has been all about minimalism. Now, however, buyers have a choice of green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and blue finishes. Mirroring somewhat similar color choices previously made available on iPhones and iPods, it’s still a surprising turn of events.
The good news for die-hard minimalists is that a more familiar silver finish also remains. That said, many non-business customers will likely vie for something more vibrant. A less utilitarian appearance, if nothing else, will undoubtedly suit more personal home-based working environments.
Breakthrough Silicon Chip
Apple’s surprise splash of color shouldn’t overshadow the all-new 24-inch iMac’s most significant feature. The implementation of Cupertino’s breakthrough M1 chip is arguably the biggest news here. Apple’s proprietary silicon processor has already made its way
into the new MacBook Air,
13-inch MacBook Pro, and
Mac mini.
Now also driving the brand’s latest all-in-one desktop computer, what’s promised is the most
powerful and capable iMac ever. Employing so-called system-on-chip architecture, there’s plenty to grasp surrounding the new processor. Apple guarantees previously unseen power efficiency, for starters.
Also on offer are never-before-seen performance levels designed to make every task completed on the new iMac feel faster and more fluid. From browsing the web to editing videos and gaming, the M1 chip claims to truly redefine the iMac’s capability.
New Size, New Price
With a new size comes a new price. Unsurprisingly, the new Apple iMacs powered by the M1 chip receive mid-range prices, starting at $1,299. That’s $200 more than the existing 21.5-inch iMac. However, it’s also $500 cheaper than the current 27-incher, which costs $1,799.
The mid-range new iMac doesn’t only get a new silicon processor, either. Its colorful shell also plays host to an array of other unique features that we’ll touch on next. Accordingly, and at just a fraction under $1,300, it’s hard to argue with Apple’s pricing.
Still, the 24-inch iMac is a sizable investment, as is any new piece of high-end tech. With that, protection from faults or any other unfortunate mishaps is always advisable.
AppleCare+ Considerations
Cupertino’s finest are on hand as ever with
AppleCare+. Three-year cover for the cheapest 24-inch iMac is expected to cost in the region of $300. For this, customers can make up to two accidental damage claims every 12 months. A service fee of between $99 and $299 applies in cases of damage to parts including screens and external enclosures.
Upsie, meanwhile, offers comparable cover at a discount of up to 70%. What’s more, Upsie boasts a flat deductible of only $25, and
extended warranty coverage is available for both new and used iMacs. With Upsie, 24-inch iMac owners can secure comprehensive protection against manufacturing defects, screen cracks, drops, spills, and more.
What Else Is New?
So, what else is new with Apple’s colorful M1-powered iMac? In addition to the best camera, microphones, and speakers ever fitted to any Mac, there’s also a new ultra-slim external enclosure design. Enabled by the M1 chip, this means that the 24-inch iMac is just 11.5 millimeters thick. With that comes a striking new side profile.
In terms of its screen, the latest iMac gets Apple’s 4.5K Retina display with 11.3 million pixels and 500 nits of brightness.
Touch ID comes to the iconic iMac for the first time as well. Also new to the all-in-one is a magnetically attaching power connector with a woven two-meter-long color-matched cable. Coordinated accessories are available, too, including color-matched Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad options.
Colorful AND Environmentally Friendly
Apple’s new iMacs are also some of the brand’s most environmentally friendly devices ever. Every 24-inch iMac manufactured by Apple has a low-carbon aluminum enclosure. Elsewhere, each colorful new iMac’s main logic board incorporates 100% recycled tin solder.
Furthermore, their speakers, fan motors, and power connectors all include magnets made with 100% recycled rare earth elements. Wherever possible, Apple also crafts any packaging from 100% wood fiber that’s either recycled or sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Ready to Brighten up Your Desk?
Apple’s 24-inch iMac is available to order now. The first customers are expected to receive their colorful new iMacs starting in the second half of May.
Have you already ordered? While you wait for delivery, why not lock in
extended warranty protection with Upsie? You can purchase the plan now and update it with your tracking number, so the plan starts the day your computer is delivered. Comprehensive coverage costs $188.99 for a $1,299 iMac, and Apple customers can secure total peace of mind on any iMac purchased in the last 60 days.
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