Apple yesterday announced a completely redesigned 24-inch iMac with Apple’s M1 silicon chip. The new iMac, the first major redesign of the Mac desktop computer since 2012, features several changes compared to the previous generation.
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After the event, it is possible that some news and developments have fallen under the radar, so we have compiled this list of some of the less talked about features and changes of the new 24-inch iMac.
First Mac with built-in spatial audio
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The 24-inch MiMac is the first Mac to include space audio integrated with Dolby Atmos. This is enabled by six new high-fidelity speakers that work in conjunction with power cancellation woofers. Apple says that in tandem, new speakers and woofers create “the best speakers on any Mac.” Space audio is available on iPhone and iPad devices that support Dolby Atmos content, and will now hit the Mac for the first time.
First iMac with WiFi 6
Apple’s BookM1 silicon MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini launched in November were the first Macs to support the new and faster WiFi 6 protocol. With M1 now on the MiMac, the 24-inch 24iMac becomes the first Mac desktop computer that supports WiFi 6.
Headphone jack on the side
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The new 24-inch iMac features a radically thinner design compared to the previous generation. While visually pleasing, this new design presented a challenge to position the 3.5mm headphone jack. Normally, the headphone connector would be placed on the back of the iMac, but with the new 24-inch model, the connector is placed on the left side.
Ethernet port of the power adapter
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Another problem presented by the new thin design of the iMac was where to place the Ethernet port. Apple’s solution to the dilemma is to place the Ethernet port directly on the power adapter. Apple says this new “fantastic new innovation” means users can keep their desktops less cluttered while enjoying the benefits of Ethernet.
No SD card slot
The previous generation iMac models featured an SD card slot reader on the back. The new design of the 24-inch MiMac made it a challenge. In theory, Apple could have easily placed the SD card reader next to it, such as the headphone jack, but instead decided to remove it completely.
Of course, these are just some of the many new features that the 24-inch “iMac” includes. You can learn more about the new iMac and everything Apple announced at its “Spring Loaded” event via our summary.