Apple fulfilled its promise by unveiling yesterday, Tuesday, the largest update of its devices alongside a number of new products at its annual spring event. The revealed devices included the latest version of the iPad Pro, redesigned colorful iMacs, a new iPhone in a color Apple has not typically used, the long-awaited AirTag location tracker, and an updated Apple TV remote that relies on the smart assistant "Siri".
As expected, Apple introduced the updated iPad Pro featuring a faster processor, 5G support, and a Thunderbolt port to connect to more external displays and a Mini-LED display. The company stated in the conference presentation that the new iPad Pro screen will increase brightness, provide a higher contrast ratio, and improve energy efficiencies to extend battery life. The powerful M1 chip has been added to the iPad Pro for the first time, enabling several software updates including better graphics, enhanced video effects, and augmented reality features.
The updated camera provides improved depth and better video quality, along with a feature called Center Stage that automatically zooms based on the number of people in the frame during video calls or meetings. The new iPad Pro starts at $799 and will be available for order starting April 30.
Apple also unveiled the redesigned iMac, which includes its new M1 chip. This chip allowed Apple to reduce internal components, replacing the thermal system that keeps the device cool with two small fans. The new iMac is only 11.5 mm deep. The M1 chip will also enable iMac applications to run faster, improve machine learning speed, and allow the use of iPhone apps like Zillow and Headspace from the iMac screen, according to Apple officials.
The iMac will now feature a 24-inch screen with a 4.5K resolution of 11.3 million pixels and will be available in seven colors. For users still working from home, Apple has also enhanced the iMac camera, which includes a 1080p resolution, automatic white balance, noise reduction, and tone mapping for improved appearance. The computer also features a new microphone designed to reduce background noise.
The new iMac starts at $1,299 for four colors and $1,499 for the other three colors with additional features, and will be available in the second half of May. Meanwhile, Apple adds a Touch ID button to the iMac's external keyboard for the first time, located in the top right corner of the keyboard, similar to the latest MacBook laptops, allowing users to unlock their computers or switch users through their fingerprints.
Both the keyboard and the Magic Mouse will be available in a variety of colors to match the new iMac color options.
Finally, Apple introduced AirTag, a Bluetooth locating device that helps find items like keys, wallets, laptops, or even your car. These small, flat, round disks with integrated chips allow someone to locate items when connected to Apple's Find My app and are compatible with Apple's voice assistant Siri.
The stainless steel devices, which are water and dust resistant, feature a built-in speaker that plays sounds to help locate them. AirTag is equipped with Apple's U1 chip, which uses ultra-wideband technology, the same chip found in the iPhone 12. The price for AirTag is set at $29 or four devices for $99, starting April 30.
Apple also launched the next generation of its Apple TV 4K streaming device along with a remote control with Siri for the first time. The remote, made from 100% recycled aluminum, features a new clickpad on top that users can scroll through, along with a dedicated Siri button on the side. The new Apple TV will be available starting April 30, with the 32GB version priced at $179 and the 64GB version at $199.
Additionally, Apple made changes to Apple Card offerings for couples and families sharing credit card accounts. Couples can now merge and share their Apple Card credit lines while enjoying equal rights on the account. For families, any individual over the age of 13 can now use the family Apple Card account.
The Apple Card, a credit card issued by Goldman Sachs, was launched in 2019 and is exclusive to iPhone users. Apple also announced a paid podcast service called Apple Podcast Subscriptions, offering ad-free listening, early access to new series, and exclusive content. Participating media brands include NPR, Los Angeles Times, and The Athletic. The paid service will be available in 170 regions and countries next month, with podcasters able to set their own pricing.
In other surprises, Apple took time to announce that the iPhone 12 and its mini version are now available in purple, joining existing models available in blue, green, black, white, and red. The new color starts at $799 and will be available for purchase on April 30.
