Apple has officially introduced an updated version of its 24-inch desktop iMac. The company has overhauled the all-in-one's internal architecture, equipping it with new custom M6 chipsets in 10-core and 12-core configurations. Notably, the market had anticipated the arrival of the M5 generation, but developers opted for a more powerful solution, delivering record gains in computing and graphics capabilities while expanding on-device artificial intelligence features.

M6 Chip Instead of the Anticipated M5

The primary upgrade lies under the hood: instead of the predicted M5 processor, the device integrates the M6 chipset. Users can choose between two configurations — 10-core and 12-core. According to benchmark data, the 12-core version delivers nearly a 40 percent increase in CPU performance and more than double — over 200 percent — higher GPU speeds compared to the previous generation. This leap makes the new iMac one of the most powerful desktop solutions in the company's lineup.

Artificial Intelligence and Memory

On-device AI processing deserves special mention: Apple representatives note that the new desktop handles AI tasks five times faster than M4-powered models. Memory bandwidth reaches 170 gigabytes per second, and the SSD storage operates twice as fast as the previous generation. Together, these parameters ensure smoother performance for resource-intensive applications and local neural network models.

Unchanged Design and Display

Despite significant performance upgrades, the device's exterior remains completely identical to the previous version. The iMac retains its 24-inch IPS display with a resolution of 4480×2520 pixels, 500 nits of brightness, and a 60Hz refresh rate. The enclosure is available in seven vibrant colors: green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver, allowing users to match the model to their workspace interior.

Connectivity and Ports

Thanks to the new custom N1 chip, the all-in-one now supports the latest wireless standards. For wired connectivity, configurations differ: models with the 10-core processor feature two Thunderbolt 4 ports, while versions with the 12-core chipset boast four corresponding connectors, expanding options for peripherals and external storage.

Pricing and Shipping Dates

The base version of the 24-inch iMac is priced at $1,499. For this price, buyers get a 10-core processor, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. Top-tier configurations offer up to 32GB of RAM, up to 2TB of storage, nano-texture glass to reduce glare, and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet adapter. Initial pre-order shipments will begin on November 6.