Nestled in a stylish neighborhood of Los Angeles, I had the opportunity to test drive Apple’s recently unveiled Mac Mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro models, each powered by the cutting-edge M4 chips that incorporate Apple Intelligence AI technology.
These refreshed desktops and laptops bring a variety of enhancements that vary in significance; for example, the MacBook Pro now features an extra Thunderbolt port, and the Mac Mini boasts a more compact design. However, the standout innovation is the launch of the Apple-engineered M4 chips across all models, ushering in an array of new AI functionalities, advanced capabilities, and improved gaming performance. During my visit to Apple’s Los Angeles showcase, I witnessed live demonstrations that showcased the machines’ prowess in audio production, high-definition video editing, and immersive gaming experiences — I left the event genuinely impressed.
Watch this: Apple’s New M4 Macs Up Close: 2024 MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, iMac Details
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Despite the exciting previews, there are some important considerations: I wasn’t able to conduct any benchmark tests or explore any applications beyond those included in Apple’s demonstrations. Stay tuned for our comprehensive reviews, which will provide a detailed analysis of how the new M4-powered Mac Mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro models compare to their predecessors and the rising competition posed by Microsoft’s AI-augmented Copilot Plus PCs.
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M4 iMac colors are lovely, but not too bright
The M4 iMac lineup features an eye-catching variety of colors that are simply irresistible, even with a surprisingly understated list of hues — a departure from Apple’s usual tendency to embellish color descriptions. Available in blue, purple, pink, orange, yellow, green, and silver, the M4 iMacs showcase subtle two-tone designs. The vibrant hues grace the back of the computer, while the metallic stand and front panel present more muted versions of the same color, adding an element of elegance.
This aesthetic upgrade makes them more appealing than ever, and they retain the slim profile characteristic of last year’s iMac M3 models. The introduction of Thunderbolt 4 ports enhances connectivity, with two ports on the entry-level model and four on the premium version. Additionally, the new 12-megapixel camera with Center Stage capabilities offers sharper video quality, and the optional nano-texture display reduces glare — a significant advantage for professionals working in brightly lit environments.
One feature I found intriguing was the new Desk View capability, which utilizes the camera to showcase items directly beneath the iMac’s display. Although initially seeming gimmicky, it could serve a practical purpose for streamers demonstrating hands-on crafts or instructors engaged in math instruction via Zoom, for example.
An older Mac Mini (left) compared to the new M4-powered Mac Mini (right).
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The adorably small but powerful Mac Mini
As a fan of compact gadgets, I found the latest Mac Mini to be both visually appealing and impressively powerful. Much like the trend of foldable clamshell phones, sacrificing additional thickness proves worthwhile when it results in a smaller overall footprint. Apple thoughtfully showcased the new Mac Mini alongside its older counterpart, allowing a direct comparison; while the original still holds its ground in size, the new Mini fits comfortably in one hand, making it a truly portable M4-powered option that could easily be tossed into a purse.
A bottom view of an older Mac Mini on the left and a new 2024 Mac Mini on the right. Note the power button in the top-right corner of the updated version’s all-black bottom.
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In a bold design choice, Apple positioned the power button on the bottom, a move that has drawn mixed reactions, yet it offers an easy way to activate the new Mini by simply tilting it upwards. The addition of USB-C ports on the front serves as a convenient option for accessories that do not require the high-speed 40-gigabits-per-second capacity of the Thunderbolt 4 ports located at the back. Essential connectivity options are also present, including a 3.5mm headphone jack, HDMI out, and an Ethernet port.
A bottom view of the new Mac Mini 2024, showing the power button’s placement. With the computer sitting on a desktop and the ports facing forward, the button is just under the left-rear corner.
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I was particularly impressed by one demonstration showcasing the Mac Mini’s ability to run Logic audio editing software. Within the software, the AI Music Maker function can generate AI-composed music tracks that seamlessly integrate into videos. Users can construct these tracks gradually, layering in drums, bass, keyboard, and other musical elements, all of which can be easily adjusted without requiring any formal music theory knowledge.
The Logic computer program running AI Music Maker. Drums are on the top in yellow, while guitar and keyboard are below but not selected.
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For instance, during the demo, the presenter effortlessly added kick drum and hi-hat cymbals by tapping a few icons to introduce complexity into the track, allowing for varied and dynamic drumming patterns. Users can even manipulate melodic instruments across octave scales, while the piano selection feature accommodates both “hands” to enrich the musical experience by providing high, low, or both chord ranges. All of these musical elements are generated via AI and can be utilized royalty-free, enhancing creative possibilities for users.
The MacBook Pro 2024 with M4 Max chip and 128GB of RAM playing the 2019 game Control.
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MacBook Pro is a Siri, ChatGPT and gaming machine
The latest MacBook Pro models retain the same design elements as last year’s M3 versions; however, the entry-level M4 14-inch model now includes three USB-C ports instead of two. Across this year’s range, every model is equipped with three Thunderbolt 4 ports, and upgrading to an M4 Pro or M4 Max unlocks Thunderbolt 5, offering blistering data transfer speeds of up to 120Gbps.
During the demo, I observed a fully-specced 16-inch MacBook Pro featuring the M4 Max chip and 128GB of RAM as a presenter engaged Siri AI. They asked the virtual assistant for help in combining PDFs, with the system delivering results in a couple of seconds. Leveraging Apple’s collaboration with ChatGPT, I witnessed the AI respond to more complex inquiries about activities in Malibu, demonstrating the seamless integration of intelligence; similarly, the iMacs across the room displayed comparable response times. The laptops were also capable of transforming photos into AI-generated cartoons, showcasing their innovative capabilities, and did so with a response time akin to that of Microsoft Copilot Plus PCs unveiled earlier this year.
One of the standout moments from the demonstration was observing the M4 chips’ extraordinary capabilities as they rendered Remedy Entertainment’s 2019 title Control. Apple selected a visually striking segment of the environmental shooter, placed in dark and shadowy caverns illuminated by brilliant flashes, to illustrate the M4’s advanced ray-tracing technology. As I navigated through the in-game world, splashing through puddles while combating enemies, I noted the realistic reflections that truly enhanced the immersion. It’s important to note that my experience was on a top-of-the-line system with an M4 Max chip and 128GB of RAM, leaving me curious about the performance of more modest configurations under similar graphical demands.
Overall, my visit to the Los Angeles demo event offered an enticing glimpse into Apple’s latest array of computers. Many will be drawn in by their stunning aesthetics, while others will appreciate the incremental upgrades. Still, all versions promise the performance enhancements that unlock advanced AI functions. Nevertheless, the true utility of these tools will be determined once Apple Intelligence is widely implemented, and software developers begin integrating this next generation of technology into their applications.
**Interview with Tech Enthusiast and Apple Aficionado, Jordan Lee**
**Editor:** Thanks for joining us, Jordan! You recently attended the unveiling of Apple’s new M4-powered devices. What were your first impressions of the Mac Mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro?
**Jordan Lee:** Thanks for having me! I was genuinely impressed. The design elements are sleek and modern, particularly the compactness of the new Mac Mini. Apple has really nailed that portable aesthetic without sacrificing power. The M4 chips are a game-changer, augmenting performance significantly, especially for tasks like audio production and gaming.
**Editor:** Speaking of performance, can you elaborate on the standout features of the M4 chips across these devices?
**Jordan Lee:** Absolutely! One notable feature is the incorporation of Apple Intelligence AI technology. This elevates everything from productivity to entertainment. For example, the Mac Mini’s Logic software includes an AI Music Maker function that generates music tracks. It’s user-friendly, allowing even those without a music background to create complex compositions effortlessly.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! The color options for the M4 iMacs seem to have gained attention as well. What do you think about that aesthetic choice?
**Jordan Lee:** The colors are lovely and certainly eye-catching, though they are more understated than what we’ve seen from Apple in the past. The two-tone designs provide an elegant touch, striking a balance between vibrant hues for the back and more muted tones for the front. It makes these iMacs feel fresh and vibrant, perfect for creative environments.
**Editor:** You mentioned connectivity enhancements as well—how do they stack up?
**Jordan Lee:** The addition of Thunderbolt 4 ports is a significant upgrade. The MacBook Pro now has three USB-C ports and can leverage Thunderbolt 5 with higher configurations for blisteringly fast data transfers. This is a critical advantage for professionals working with large files, and it makes the devices future-proof to an extent.
**Editor:** There seems to be a growing focus on AI capabilities. How do you think the introduction of these features with the M4 chips positions Apple against competitors like Microsoft?
**Jordan Lee:** Apple’s integration of AI certainly puts it in a strong position. The seamlessness with which Siri operates, combined with productivity enhancements in apps, gives users a lot of versatility. However, Microsoft’s Copilot Plus is something to watch. The battle between these AI-augmented ecosystems will be fascinating, as both companies are pushing to make these technologies as user-friendly as possible.
**Editor:** Lastly, you noted you weren’t able to run benchmark tests. How important do you think that aspect is for users awaiting reviews?
**Jordan Lee:** It’s crucial. While demos are impactful and showcase potential, concrete performance metrics provide a clearer picture. Potential buyers will want to see how these devices stand up against their predecessors and what real-world performance impacts the M4 chips deliver. I’m looking forward to those comprehensive reviews as well!
**Editor:** Thank you, Jordan, for sharing your insights on Apple’s new offerings!
**Jordan Lee:** My pleasure! It’s an exciting time for tech enthusiasts.
