Apple has introduced its innovative Apple Intelligence platform to consumers, broadening its scope across the iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This launch includes a new, elegantly designed, ultra-slim iMac model—the first to encompass integrated AI driven by the cutting-edge M4 chip. This update showcases vibrant color choices and improved hardware, establishing a new benchmark for AI performance.
Crafted to revolutionize the iMac experience, the M4 chip enhances the iMac’s speed by as much as 1.7 times for routine tasks and up to 2.1 times for intensive activities like photo editing and gaming. The latest iMac is equipped with 16GB of high-speed unified memory, which can be expanded to 32GB. The M4 chip’s Neural Engine has also received upgrades, delivering performance that is more than three times quicker than previous generations.
‘The ultimate all-in-one AI solution’
Available for preorder starting at $1,299, the new iMac is touted as “the ultimate all-in-one for AI” by Apple, although users will initially experience a limited array of features as the complete capabilities of Apple Intelligence will gradually unfold through 2025. “Image Playground, Genmoji, 🖨 ChatGPT integration, and several other features are expected to debut with iOS 18.2, likely launching in December,” as reported by insider site MacRumors.
“The inaugural features of Apple Intelligence will launch with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1,” Apple stated. These initial capabilities include “Writing Tools” for summarizing texts and checking grammar, “Smart Reply” for emails and messages, and language search technology for locating photos.
The new iMac will be available in seven hues: green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver. Each iMac comes with a color-coordinated Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, or an optional Magic Trackpad, all featuring a USB-C port. Furthermore, Apple is reportedly preparing to release at least five different MacBook models in the near future. Customers can anticipate 14-inch and 16-inch variants powered by the M4 Pro and M4 Max chipsets. Additionally, the Mac Mini is also due for a complete redesign, its first since 2010.
Apple Intelligence: Convenient for daily use, but not revolutionary
While Apple Intelligence is impressive, it does not significantly set itself apart from the more sophisticated solutions available in the market. Users looking for advanced AI capabilities for professional endeavors are likely to gravitate toward platforms like OpenAI or more adept assistants such as Google’s Gemini to harness the full potential of AI technology. Essentially, Apple Intelligence’s current offerings primarily function as an enhancement to Siri, aimed at refining routine tasks instead of radically changing the user experience.
A recent YouGov survey reveals that 60% of consumers deem AI features crucial when selecting their next smartphone, highlighting the necessity for smartphone manufacturers to deliver an exceptional AI experience. As competitors continually advance beyond basic features, Apple must ensure that its AI offerings not only fulfill but surpass escalating consumer expectations.
With the introduction of Apple’s AI-equipped iMac, rivals like Google and Samsung are intensifying their own AI developments. In August, Google debuted the Pixel 9 series alongside its latest AI assistant, which incorporates Gemini’s Live, facilitating natural, human-like exchanges. Similarly, during the July Unpacked event, Samsung unveiled its Galaxy AI technology, crafted to streamline tasks such as message translation and photo editing, which closely resembles the capabilities of Apple Intelligence.
Nonetheless, concerns are rising that these features may soon be subject to a paywall, despite the initial excitement. The emphasis might shift from who provides the superior AI to who can offer it without added costs. Samsung has indicated that its Galaxy AI features “will be offered for free until the conclusion of 2025 on compatible Samsung Galaxy devices.” Other tech giants may soon adopt a similar strategy.
As Apple rolls out its M4-powered iMac, the race in AI technology intensifies, with Google and Samsung elevating the competitive stakes. While Apple Intelligence will introduce new features, it might not satisfy users anticipating more advanced functionality. Currently, its functions primarily enhance everyday tasks, lacking the distinctive innovations presented by its competitors. The pressing question remains: Can Apple produce something truly groundbreaking, or will it merely be playing catch-up?
As the company continues its announcement week, stay tuned for exciting updates.
