A cryptic tweet from the usually-reliable Apple rumor tweeter known as “CoinX” claims that updates of the iMac and Mac mini are coming soon.
The 21.5-inch and 27-inch iMacs were updated last spring with new 6-core and 8-core Intel CPUs and new Radeon Pro Vega graphics options. The Mac mini was updated in in 2018 with eighth-generation 6-core and quad-core processors, all-flash storage up to 2TB. So what’s next?
The question is whether the upgrades will offer more than speed and power improvements (which, of course, are nothing to sneeze at).
It’s possible that the iMac could see a design tweak, if not an outright revamp. At the very least we should see slimmer bezels and better display tech, as well as a phase-out of the slow spinning-disk options in lieu of SSDs across the board (unless Apple offers a low-priced 4K option with a traditional hard drive). Oh yes, and a space grey grey option.
I think there’s an outside chance that we could see a bigger iMac: anywhere from 28 inches to 32 inches. In a 9to5Mac post, Ben Lovejoy thinks we need a bigger iMac — perhaps up to 34 inches. Personally, I think a 32-inch iMac with 6061x338r resolution would be cool.
I also hope the “non-pro” iMac will borrow some features from its “Pro” sibling. Namely, its enhanced stereo speakers, four beamforcing mics, the T2 chip, and a 1080p FaceTime camera.
I’d also like to see a Magic Keyboard with Touch Bar, at least as an option. Also on my wish list (though I don’t think it will happen) is the addition of dual cameras on top of the display. Dual cameras would make 3D facial recognition possible, and could even be used to capture 3D video. Not only could our FaceTime chats take on a deeper, richer experience, but 3D capture could help those who have difficulty interacting with their computers.
Dual cameras could more easily track eye and facial gestures allowing for much more precise input for those who need this type of interaction. A whole new way to interact with the iMac would be possible.
As for accessories, I expect to see an optional Magic Keyboard with a Touch Bar offered for the iMac. And since Apple has repeatedly said there won’t be a touchscreen on a Mac, I’d love to see an optional, super-sized Magic Trackpad with Apple Pencil support.
If we really want to get crazy with our speculation, consider this: on Jan. 24, Apple filed for a patent (number 20200026327) for “electronic device with glass housing member” that hints at a radical design of the iMac. LetsGoDigital commissioned designer Jermaine Smit to create a video imagining such a device, and it’s gorgeous (pictured above).
As for the Mac mini, I’m not expecting any form factor changes. We should see power boosts with pricing remaining the same.
