Title: The End of iMac Pro: A New Era for Apple’s All-in-One
Written on
Chapter 1: The iMac Pro's Downfall
While I frequently purchase Apple products, including a £35 lightning to 3.5mm audio adapter for my AirPods Max, I never felt inclined to invest in an iMac Pro. You may wonder why, especially since I was in the market for a significant upgrade from my sluggish 2016 13" MacBook Pro. At that time, my video editing demands were escalating, and I coveted the stunning 27" 5K display of the iMac.
Surprisingly, the iMac Pro didn’t catch my attention. Instead, I opted for a standard iMac with upgraded specifications. Fast forward to today, and it appears Apple has also lost enthusiasm for their high-end iMac. This is promising news. Are they discontinuing the iMac Pro? While they haven’t explicitly stated it, several indicators suggest that the end is near.
Section 1.1: Signs of an Impending Closure
My first indication of the iMac Pro's looming exit came from an article on AppleInsider. They revealed that Apple is now offering only a single configuration of the iMac Pro "while supplies last." This message is peculiar and indicates that the iMac Pro is nearing its end, which is unusual for Apple. Typically, they extract every penny from their products before discontinuing them, often leading to buyer’s remorse and a surge in second-hand units on their refurb store.
By acknowledging the dwindling stock of iMac Pros, Apple not only signals the retirement of their once most powerful iMac but also inadvertently creates a sense of scarcity, which I believe will spur demand. Naturally, these units will sell out swiftly. Well-played, Apple.
Subsection 1.1.1: Why the iMac Pro's Demise is Positive
The iMac Pro's existence always puzzled me. Launched in 2017, it was marketed for enhanced thermal performance and "Workstation-Class Performance in an iMac Design." While this may have resonated with a niche audience, it left many scratching their heads. The iMac Pro sought to cater to a small group of creatives who felt the standard iMac fell short in performance and configuration options.
It's essential to remember that the iMac Pro debuted during a time when Apple faced significant backlash from professionals who felt overlooked. They pointed to the latest MacBook Pro, which capped RAM at 16GB, as evidence of Apple's pivot toward everyday consumers.
Chapter 2: The Shift in Apple's Focus
When the iMac Pro was introduced, the Mac lineup lacked a compelling Mac Pro offering. Apple was still promoting the infamous "trash can" Mac Pro, criticized for its design flaws that hampered thermal efficiency and upgradeability. Some argued that the iMac Pro signaled the Mac Pro's decline.
However, everything changed with the announcement of the new Mac Pro, which impressed everyone. Newer iterations of the standard iMac soon followed, allowing users to surpass the iMac Pro's specifications. Then came the revolutionary M1 chip, altering the landscape once more.
I Bought an iMac Pro in 2024! - This video explores the reasons behind the iMac Pro's decline and what it means for Apple's future. Check it out!
Section 2.1: The Legacy of the iMac Pro
The iMac Pro was an intriguing experiment for Apple, but its user base may feel somewhat misled. These machines represented a considerable investment, and while they provided value to many creators and businesses, Apple’s lack of regular updates and the competition from standard iMacs feels like a betrayal.
This situation also fosters buyer confusion. Apple often complicates the purchasing process, a fact I’ve witnessed while assisting my YouTube audience in deciding between 8GB and 16GB RAM options in the new M1 Macs.
BAD NEWS on the 2022 iMac Pro... - This video discusses the implications of the iMac Pro's potential discontinuation and its impact on users.
Section 2.2: A Brighter Future Ahead
With the iMac Pro likely on its way out, selecting a new iMac should become significantly simpler once it arrives. There’s no longer a need for a separate ‘Pro’ model, given the unparalleled power and thermal efficiency of the new M-series chips. The focus should shift to budget and user type rather than confusing nomenclature. Eliminating the term ‘Pro’ will also help dispel the pretentiousness often associated with that label.
Should you consider buying an iMac Pro? Regardless of any attractive deals, my advice is a definitive "no." We're only weeks away from witnessing the release of a next-generation iMac that will ditch Intel’s limitations and introduce a fresh design along with exciting features.
So, resist the urge to buy this outdated machine, and instead, prepare for a revolutionary shift in Apple's all-in-one offerings. I can’t wait to see what’s next!