Apple has reportedly slowed production of the 21.5-inch iMac ahead of a much-anticipated Apple Silicon upgrade. The company’s popular all-in-one is expected to make the shift to custom ARM chips this year.
In the meantime, certain 21.5-inch iMac 4K models powered by Intel processors could be a little more difficult to get hold of.
Apple’s first M1 machines have blown us away with their performance and efficiency, leading fans to wonder when Apple Silicon will replace Intel chips in other Mac models. Right now, the only desktop machine with an Apple M1 chip is the entry-level Mac mini.
That’s expected to change this year, and a new report suggests the first iMac with Apple Silicon could be closer than we anticipated.
iMac with Apple Silicon on the way?
Sources familiar with Apple’s supply chain, who have been speaking to AppleInsider, claim that Cupertino has ceased production of a number of existing iMac models. Those include the pricier 512GB and 1TB configurations, which are “currently unavailable” on Apple’s website.
This applies to the Apple Online Store in the U.S. and in other countries. Customers can still order a 21.5-inch iMac 4K in 256GB and 1TB Fusion Drive configurations, albeit with a lengthy wait.
When popular Apple products become unavailable like this, a long time after launch, it typically suggests a refresh is right around the corner. It could mean that the first iMac with Apple Silicon, which we’ve all been waiting for, will be available sooner than originally anticipated.
The refresh could also introduce an all-new iMac design, which rumors say will be based on the stunning XDR Display, with slimmer bezels and sharper edges. Other reports suggest we will also see new color options.
