Where does the iMac go from here?
Macworld|October 2020
We will see big changes with Apple’s popular desktop computer—it’s a matter of when.
JASON SNELL
Where does the iMac go from here?

With an early August announcement of the new 27-inch iMac (go.macworld.com/ifaq), Apple seems to be clearing out some of the final major Intel Mac releases in its product pipeline.

The big question is, what’s next for the iMac? While this new revision makes the current iMac a bit faster and a bit nicer, it’s a fairly modest upgrade. With the move to Apple silicon on the horizon, it’s worth pondering where the iMac goes from here—and how soon we might see truly big changes when it comes to Apple’s most popular desktop computer.

BIG iMAC: RESETTING THE CLOCK

The 27-inch iMac’s update this week has bought Apple some time. With this update, it feels like Apple could wait somewhere between 12 and 18 months before needing to update the larger of the two iMac models.

Yes, that means that Apple would be sitting with an Intel iMac at the top of the line until late 2021 or early 2022. But consider that most iMac buyers aren’t hardcore pro users who want to be on the cutting edge. Even if this 27-inch iMac is the last major update to an Intel Mac ever, it’s going to be a powerful computer that will serve its users for years to come.

And of course, some savvy computer users will even consider buying a new iMac a savvy move—it’s tried and true technology that will last for years during a time of great change. By the time they’ll need to replace this iMac, all the furor involving Apple’s transition to Apple silicon will have settled.

This story is from the October 2020 edition of Macworld.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the October 2020 edition of Macworld.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM MACWORLDView All
Apple connects Podcasts app with Music, News+, and other subscriptions
Macworld

Apple connects Podcasts app with Music, News+, and other subscriptions

Subscriptions to eligible services automatically appear in the Podcasts app.

time-read
2 mins  |
November 2023
How to insert fractions in Word and Pages
Macworld

How to insert fractions in Word and Pages

Microsoft and Apple try to help you put the numbers in the correct place and have it look good, too.

time-read
5 mins  |
November 2023
Three overlooked Apple apps you should start using right now
Macworld

Three overlooked Apple apps you should start using right now

The company has spent a lot of time working on several of the core apps across its platforms, trying to ensure that they provide a great experience.

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2023
RIP Lightning: In lieu of flowers, please send dongles
Macworld

RIP Lightning: In lieu of flowers, please send dongles

A eulogy for the little iPhone port that could.

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2023
How to create and customize your Contact Poster in iOS 17
Macworld

How to create and customize your Contact Poster in iOS 17

It's an all-new way to express yourself to those you call or message.

time-read
1 min  |
November 2023
3 new Apple features I'd literally be lost without
Macworld

3 new Apple features I'd literally be lost without

iOS 17 and watchOS 10 get new features to help you find your way (and your remote).

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2023
LIMINK AL ALLOY PORTABLE TRIPLE MONITOR (LK14)
Macworld

LIMINK AL ALLOY PORTABLE TRIPLE MONITOR (LK14)

While it is easy to connect external displays to your MacBook for expanded desk-based screen space, you can't easily take this set up on the road with you or pack it neatly away in a drawer.

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2023
Intel announces Thunderbolt 5 with double the bandwidth
Macworld

Intel announces Thunderbolt 5 with double the bandwidth

The new standard will likely be available on Macs in 2024 or 2025.

time-read
1 min  |
November 2023
Safari 17: Everything you need to know about the new features
Macworld

Safari 17: Everything you need to know about the new features

In Sonoma, Ventura, and Monterey, Safari helps you be more productive and secure.

time-read
2 mins  |
November 2023
How to add widgets to the macOS Sonoma Desktop
Macworld

How to add widgets to the macOS Sonoma Desktop

Widgets provide quick access to the information you need

time-read
3 mins  |
November 2023