Apple has expanded the compatibility of its professional video editing software, Final Cut Pro, to include the new seventh-generation iPad Mini. Previously, Final Cut Pro was only available for iPad Pro and iPad Air models with M1 chips and newer, but Apple recently updated its App Store listing to confirm that the app now works with the A17 Pro chip in the latest iPad Mini. Apple’s Logic Pro, an audio editing app, also runs on the new iPad Mini, as it requires a minimum of an A12 Bionic chip.
Despite this, some features of Final Cut Pro are not fully supported on the new iPad Mini due to hardware and software limitations, as detailed in the app description. Additionally, the device is not compatible with Stage Manager, a feature available on larger iPads like the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro and iPad Air models. This is likely due to the iPad Mini’s smaller 8.3-inch display.
Stage Manager is a multitasking feature that allows users to resize apps into overlapping windows, providing a more desktop-like experience. On larger iPads, it can also extend to external displays with up to 6K resolution, enabling users to work with up to four apps on the iPad and four more on the external screen. However, these features remain exclusive to larger iPads, leaving the iPad Mini behind in terms of advanced multitasking capabilities.
New Macs with M4 Chips Launching Soon
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently revealed that Apple is preparing to launch its first Macs powered by the new M4 series of chips, and these could arrive very soon. According to Gurman, the lineup will include updated versions of the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac Mini.
The upcoming Mac Mini is expected to have a completely revamped design. Gurman previously reported that it will be almost as small as an Apple TV and will feature two front-facing USB-C ports. On the other hand, the MacBook Pro and iMac are not rumored to see major design overhauls. However, the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro is expected to gain an additional Thunderbolt port, according to leaks earlier this month.
It remains unclear whether Apple will hold an online event for these launches, similar to last year’s “Scary Fast” event on October 30, or if the new Macs will be announced through Apple Newsroom press releases, as was the case with the iPad Mini 7. If Apple does decide to host an event, we can expect media invitations to be sent out soon. Last year, Apple sent out invitations six days before the event.
USB-C Accessories Coming
Alongside the new Macs, Gurman mentioned that Apple will introduce new USB-C accessories. Recently discovered code references suggest that updated versions of the Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Keyboard will shift from Lightning to USB-C charging. This transition aligns with the European Union’s upcoming regulations that require USB-C as a standard charging port across devices, set to go into effect later this year.
What to Expect from Apple’s M4 Mac Lineup
Here’s a rundown of what Apple is likely to announce with its M4 chip lineup:
- A 14-inch MacBook Pro with the standard M4 chip.
- 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M4 Pro and M4 Max chip options.
- A redesigned iMac featuring the M4 chip.
- A smaller Mac Mini with M4 and M4 Pro chip variants.
- Updated Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Keyboard accessories with USB-C ports.
In a follow-up report, Gurman mentioned that Apple has invited media and content creators to an in-person event in Los Angeles next Wednesday, indicating that the new Macs might be announced before then.
With Apple’s transition to M4 chips and the move towards USB-C accessories, this fall promises exciting updates for Mac enthusiasts, while iPad Mini users can enjoy enhanced functionality with Final Cut Pro, albeit without Stage Manager support.
