Apple Event Recap: iMac, AirTags, iPad Pro, More
At a virtual event today, Apple announced new M1-based iMacs and iPad Pros, a new Apple TV 4K, the long-awaited AirTag, and more.
So let’s start with the biggest news first and move on from there.
iMac 24-inch (M1)
Apple introduced its first Apple Silicon-based iMac, but it ships with the same M1 chip it unveiled last year and not a next-generation M1X or M2 chip as many expected. But it’s available in seven stunning colors, which is kind of fun, and it has a 24-inch 4.5K Retina Display, and not a 21.5-inch display like the previous entry-level iMac. The iMac 24-inch starts at $1299 will be available to order starting April 30 and it will ship to customers starting in the second half of May.
iPad Pro (M1)
The new iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 share the same form factors as their predecessors, but they’re now based on the M1 chipset and not the mobile-focused Ax-series chipset, as before. Both feature optional 5G networking, but the 12.9-inch version is the better upgrade, with its new Liquid Retina XDR display. And check this one, Surface fans: Both new iPad Pros support Thunderbolt. There’s also a new white version of the Magic Keyboard. The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $999 but the 12.9-inch version jumps to $1099 and up. Both will be available to order starting April 30 and will ship to customers starting in the second half of May.
AirTag
We’ve been waiting for Apple’s Tile ripoff for over two years, but it’s finally here. The AirTag costs $29, but you can buy a pack of five for $99. “Whether attached to a handbag, keys, backpack, or other items, AirTag taps into the vast, global Find My network and can help locate a lost item, all while keeping location data private and anonymous with end-to-end encryption,” Apple notes. AirTag will be available beginning Friday, April 30.
Apple TV 4K
Speaking of something we’ve been waiting years for, Apple also finally revved the Apple TV 4K with a new version featuring a faster A12 processor and what looks like a significantly better Siri remote with a power button and a dial for scrolling through content. The new Apple TV 4K will be available for order starting April 30 at $179 for a version with 64 GB of storage, and it will ship in the second half of May.
iPhone 12 in purple
Apple isn’t changing the iPhone 12, but it is offering the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Mini in a new purple color if you’re so inclined. Prices remain the same and the purple versions will be available for pre-order beginning Friday, April 23, with availability beginning Friday, April 30.
Apple Podcasts subscriptions
The Apple Podcasts app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac is getting a major upgrade with Apple Podcasts Subscriptions, a way for customers to discover and pay for ad-free podcasts that will go live starting in May. (Why didn’t they call it Apple Podcasts+, one wonders?)
Apple Card Family
Apple is expanding its credit card offerings with Apple Card Family, a way for people to share their Apple Card, track purchases, manage spending, and build credit together. Starting in May in the U.S. only, Apple Card Family will let two people co-own an Apple Card, and share and merge their credit lines while building credit together equally. And it will let parents share Apple Card with their children 13 and older, with optional spending limits and controls, and with a single monthly bill.