Apple may not be done with its 2024 product launches just yet. Following the September debut of the iPhone 16 series, the tech giant is reportedly preparing for another event on November 1, where it could unveil new Mac hardware and iPads, according to Bloomberg.
The event is expected to feature updated versions of the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, iMac, and a new iPad mini, which hasn’t seen an update since 2021. Here are five key highlights to look out for:
1. MacBook Pro Spec Upgrade – M4 Chipset Expected
After introducing the M4 chipset in the iPad Pro earlier this year, Apple is expected to bring the same upgrade to its 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. Rumours suggest that along with the M4 chip, Apple will unveil the more powerful M4 Pro and M4 Max variants.
2. M4 Pro and M4 Max Chips Likely on the Way
Following its usual pattern, Apple tends to launch more powerful chip variants soon after introducing base models. This was the case with the M1 series, where the M1 Pro and M1 Max followed the initial release of the M1 MacBook Air. A similar rollout is expected for the M4 series, with the M4 Pro and M4 Max bringing enhanced performance, especially for demanding tasks. The new Mac mini could also benefit from the M4 Pro chip.
3. No Redesign for MacBook Pro
Leaked videos earlier this week appear to show that the MacBook Pro will not undergo a design overhaul this time around. Instead, it will feature the same external look, with the focus on internal upgrades. Even the packaging seems to be unchanged, according to these leaks.
4. Mac mini Could Shrink in Size
Apple is expected to introduce a redesigned Mac mini, rumored to be about the size of the Apple TV 4K. This would mark the first major redesign of the Mac mini, which is anticipated to come with the M4 chip. There is speculation that the new Mac mini will feature more USB-C Thunderbolt ports, with a potential absence of the full-sized USB-A port.
5. iPad mini 7 – A Long-Awaited Update
The iPad mini hasn’t seen an update since the 2021 launch of the iPad mini 6 with the A15 SoC. With its compact size and portability, the iPad mini remains popular, but it’s overdue for a refresh. The iPad mini 7 is expected to feature a new chipset and possibly support Apple's latest Intelligent features, bringing a much-needed upgrade to the lineup.
