Apple has unveiled a new 24-inch iMac model equipped with the M6 chip, featuring significant advancements in graphics performance and incorporating robust artificial intelligence features. Furthermore, the computer has received updates to its connections, optimized storage, and greater integration with the iPhone. In the Brazilian market, the starting prices are set at R$ 17,999, as communicated by the company itself.
Pre-orders for this new device will begin on October 28th, with an expected availability date of November 6th. Maintaining the philosophy of an all-in-one computer, the new iMac concentrates screen, internal components, and connectivity into a single unit.
The new iMac utilizes the M6 chip, which features CPU and GPU with up to 12 cores each. According to Apple, this computer can deliver up to 18 times better performance than the previous iMac that used an Intel processor, which was one of the brand's most popular models.
The company also emphasizes that AI processing performed directly on the device can be up to five times faster compared to the iMac with M4. This chip includes neural accelerators integrated into every graphics core and features a dual 16-core Neural Engine specifically designed to handle AI tasks.
Performance gains vary depending on the software used. For example, in Excel, Apple guarantees up to 2.5 times better performance compared to the iMac with M1 and up to 1.5 times better than the M4 model. In image editing, using Affinity, the speed can be up to 3.3 times faster than the M1 and up to twice as fast as the M4.
In locally executed AI applications, such as in LM Studio, command processing can reach up to 12 times the speed of the M1 and five times that of the M4. The memory bandwidth reaches an impressive 170 GB/s.
The new iMac operates on macOS 27, named Golden Gate, which brings Apple Intelligence functionalities and expands Siri's capabilities. The virtual assistant will now have the ability to search data in emails, messages, and photos, in addition to answering questions and executing actions across different applications.
This update also integrates AI features into the system's search tool, Spotlight, and introduces Visual Intelligence, allowing the user to ask questions about the content displayed on the screen. In the Safari browser, users can manage tabs, receive alerts about website changes, and use custom extensions.
The Shortcuts application has been enhanced with new functions that allow for automation creation through commands written in natural language. Additionally, the Liquid Glass interface allows users to adjust the transparency of the operating system's visual elements.
Integration with the iPhone has also been expanded. New possibilities include sharing photos and files, continuity of tasks started on the phone, and controlling the device directly from the iMac.
The iMac retains its 24-inch Retina display, maintaining 4.5K resolution, 500 nits brightness, and support for the wide P3 color gamut. The 12 MP camera offers Center Stage, which follows the user during video conferences, and Desk View, which allows displaying the desk during presentations.
The audio system consists of two pairs of force-canceling woofers and two tweeters, complemented by spatial audio with Dolby Atmos. The computer is also equipped with a set of three microphones focused on vocal quality.
Among the notable features, the model will be available in seven colors: blue, green, pink, yellow, purple, orange, and silver. In Brazil, the version with 10 CPU and GPU cores will cost starting from R$ 17,999. The configuration with 12 cores in both components will have a starting price of R$ 19,999. There are special rates for eligible students and education professionals, set at R$ 17,399 and R$ 18,799, respectively.
Apple also emphasizes the use of sustainable materials in its production. The equipment stand is made with 100% recycled aluminum, and the magnets use recycled rare earths. The company reports that 40% of the energy consumed in its supply chain comes from renewable sources, and all packaging is made entirely of fibers.