Apple To Release AI-Focused M4 Chip For Macs Launching Later This Year

This new chip will be a significant upgrade, boasting advanced artificial intelligence (AI) processing capabilities.

Apple is aiming to release these updated Macs by the end of 2024 and early 2025. Representative image.

Source : Getty

Apple is gearing up to launch a new generation of Macs powered by the M4 chip, according to a report by news agency Bloomberg. This new chip will be a significant upgrade, boasting advanced artificial intelligence (AI) processing capabilities. The report, citing sources familiar with Apple's plans, indicates the company is close to manufacturing the M4 chip. This chip will be integrated into all Mac models, including iMacs, MacBook Pros (including a new low-end 14-inch model), and Mac minis.

Apple Intends To Release Updated Macs With M4 Chip Soon

Apple is aiming to release these updated Macs by the end of 2024 and early 2025. The M4 chip's focus on AI processing suggests the tech giant is looking to compete in the growing market for AI-powered laptops. This technology could help with tasks like video editing, content creation, and software development.

The upcoming Mac refresh is expected to include a wide range of models, catering to different user needs and budgets. With a new lower-cost 14-inch MacBook Pro, Apple might be trying to make its professional machines more accessible.

PC makers are facing a slump after the surge in sales driven by the work-from-home and learn-from-home needs during the coronavirus pandemic. To reignite the market, the industry is setting its sights on a new generation of laptops and desktops equipped with powerful chips capable of handling artificial intelligence (AI) tasks.

These chips promise features like document summarisation without relying on cloud processing, offering a significant performance boost for users. Leading chipmakers like Intel and Qualcomm are already developing such AI-powered solutions, says a Reuters report. The report further suggests that Nvidia, a powerhouse in the AI chip market, is planning to enter the PC arena with its own chip as early as next year.

This shift towards AI integration highlights the PC industry's attempt to adapt to evolving user demands and stay competitive in a post-pandemic landscape. The success of this strategy hinges on the performance and affordability of these new AI chips, with the hope of luring consumers back to upgrade their machines.

Notably, this development comes just ahead of Apple's annual developer conference WWDC in June, where speculations suggest the iPhone maker might announce new partnerships in the space of AI and unveil significant updates to its iOS operating system.