You can also choose from different variants of the M4. If you don’t need it all In terms of processing power, the entry-level model comes with an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU. Upgradable to 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. All models start with 16 GB of RAM instead of 8 GB, with options up to 32 GB (depending on processor). As for storage, it starts at 256 GB, although you can upgrade up to 2 TB for an additional fee.
More RAM allows for a smoother experience with Apple Intelligence (which is why Apple increased RAM to 8 GB on iPhone 16 models). Now available in macOS Sequoia 15.1, you can access features like writing tools, a completely revamped Siri, Transcription Overview in the Notes app, smart replies for messages, and more. You can read about these features, along with all the other new features in Sequoia, in our roundup.
Apple Intelligence isn’t exclusive to the M4, but it’s clear that Apple Intelligence is on a campaign to update all of its hardware to stay at the forefront of its operating system. As Bloomberg’s Mark Garman pointed out in his book, power on Newsletterit took Apple three years to update the iMac with the M3 chip, but the company launched the M4 version in 12 months.
Still, like the M3 iMac, the latest model has significantly improved specs. If you have a recent iMac (even a 2021 iMac), you can at least upgrade to the next iMac. USB-C peripherals sold separately You don’t need increased performance, but you want to eventually retire Lightning accessories.