Greg Joswiak wrote, "Mac is coming. Starting Monday morning, we’re in for an exciting launch week. Stay tuned…"
While Joswiak did not specify the exact products to be announced, reports suggest that the event will include the first Macs equipped with the M4 chip.
The latest iPad Pro with the M4 chip was launched earlier this May, featuring enhancements in AI processing and general CPU speed improvements. According to reports, the M4-based Macs expected to debut next week include the iMac, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini.
Apple’s AI platform, "Apple Intelligence," will also be officially introduced next week. The software is set to launch with the October 28 update of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. The M4 chip is particularly optimized for AI functionalities, although the software will be compatible with current Macs as well.
The base M4 chip will power the iMac, the lower-end 14-inch MacBook Pro, and the entry-level Mac mini. The higher-end M4 Pro chip will be available in advanced models of the new Mac mini. The premium MacBook Pro will also feature a more powerful version of the M4 chip.
While the new iMac and MacBook Pro are expected to retain a similar design to the current models, the Mac mini will undergo its first major redesign in over a decade. The new model will be significantly smaller, closer in size to the Apple TV set-top box. At least some versions will offer five USB-C ports for accessory connections.
Apple will also introduce updates to the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad accessories for the first time in years. The new models will replace the Lightning port with a USB-C charging port, part of a broader shift driven by EU regulations.
The launch of the new M4 Macs will mark Apple’s second product event this fall, following the September unveiling of the iPhone 16 series, new Apple Watch models, and upgraded AirPods.