Next week, Apple is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated M4 chip-powered Mac lineup, marking what Apple’s marketing chief Greg Joswiak describes as an “exciting week of announcements.” Alongside these new arrivals, however, some familiar products will likely make their last appearance on Apple’s shelves. Here’s a closer look at three Apple devices expected to be discontinued soon.
M3 MacBook Pros to Make Way for M4 Versions
Apple is expected to debut refreshed 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros featuring the latest M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. While the new models will maintain the overall design, a few significant upgrades are on the way. The base model is likely to come with 16GB of RAM as the new minimum, reflecting the performance boost users can expect with the M4 chip family.
Additionally, the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro is rumored to come in a new Space Black finish, replacing the current Space Gray, marking the first time this color will be offered on a base model. Another welcome change is the extra Thunderbolt port on the base M4 MacBook Pro, increasing the number from two to three, which will enhance connectivity options. With these enhancements, the M3 MacBook Pro models, launched just last year, are expected to phase out, replaced by the M4-powered lineup.
M2 Mac mini Gets a Major Redesign
Apple is reportedly preparing the largest redesign of the Mac mini in over a decade, packing more performance and a compact form factor. The last refresh in January 2023 brought M2 and M2 Pro chips to the Mac mini, making it the first in its lineup to feature a Pro-level chip. Now, the upcoming model is rumored to sport both M4 and M4 Pro chip options and may introduce a more streamlined design with front-facing ports, adding convenience for users who frequently connect and disconnect accessories.
This redesign will likely mark the end of the traditional Mac mini look that has persisted since 2010, moving toward a more modern and functional build. The new Mac mini could offer substantial performance gains while potentially reducing its overall footprint, making it an ideal choice for both professionals and everyday users.
M3 iMac Prepares for a Refresh
The iMac is also expected to receive a boost from the M4 chip this month, following its last update to the M3 chip. While this may be a lighter refresh, it’s anticipated to bring notable upgrades to Apple’s iconic all-in-one desktop. One key improvement will likely be the shift from Apple’s Lightning connector to USB-C across accessories, including the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad, allowing for broader compatibility and faster data transfer.
With this transition, Apple finally moves away from its proprietary Lightning connector, a change that many users have long awaited. The new M4 iMac will keep its user-friendly appeal while offering upgraded speed and efficiency, maintaining its place as a popular choice for both creative professionals and home users alike.
Final Thoughts
With Apple’s M4 lineup launch, these three M-series devices are expected to make way for newer, faster, and more user-friendly iterations. As Apple continues to streamline and enhance its Mac lineup, users can look forward to a more powerful and versatile range of devices that reflect Apple’s commitment to innovation.
