Apple refreshes the iMac with M6 chip, faster AI performance, and Wi-Fi 7 – Digital Trends

Apple just announced a refreshed version of its colorful desktop computer.The latest-gen iMac comes with the new M6 processor, which packs up to a 12-core CPU and up to a 12-core GPU, plus an upgraded Neural Accelerator.Here are the core deets on the iMac refresh⚡ Up to a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU featuring Neural Accelerators in every core, delivering up to 18x faster performance compared to Intel models.🧠 Dual 16-core Neural Engine providing up to 5x faster on-device AI performance for… https://t.co/mqd7lkKxWMApple claims the new M6 chip offers an 18X performance boost over popular Intel-based chips and a 1.5X speed boost for daily productivity tasks when compared with the company’s M4-powered iMac.The Neural Engine, in particular, is getting a big bump to accelerate AI-related tasks. For this, Apple has opted for a dual 16-core Neural Engine that delivers a 5X improvement in on-device AI workflows. Compared to the M4, Apple claims the new Neural Engine not only enables faster LLM processing but also improves AI-first apps.Although the design and display hardware remain identical, the connectivity suite gets a major boost. The new iMac adds support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, alongside a 2X faster SSD.🎨 Available in seven vibrant colors—blue, green, pink, yellow, purple, orange, and silver—with matching accessories and Touch ID.💰 Starting at $1,499 (or $1,449 with education pricing), with pre-orders beginning tomorrow and shipping on November 6. pic.twitter.com/nIIQUq2VdeApple also expanded the I/O, arming its latest desktop with four Thunderbolt 4 ports that support up to two 6K external displays.On the software side, the new iMac ships with macOS 27 out of the box. Video calling is still handled by a 12-megapixel Center Stage camera, complete with Desk View.The refreshed iMac comes in seven color options and starts at $1,499 in the US for the entry-level variant with a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. The more powerful variant with a 12-core CPU and a 12-core GPU starts at $1,699. Pre-orders go live on October 28th, and shipments are expected to begin on November 6th for buyers in the US and other markets.RELATED COVERAGE:Apple just launched a new entry-level configuration of the 14-inch MacBook Pro. Even though the design and core hardware are identical, it gets the new M6 processor, which is also debuting in today’s iMac refresh. Opera wants to move routine AI work out of distant data centers and onto the computer already sitting on your desk. Its new WebAI preview lets websites and browser extensions use local models inside Opera One without requiring another AI subscription or sending the information they handle to a cloud service.WebAI also opens local AI to third-party developers instead of reserving it for Opera’s own features. Your laptop supplies the computing power, provided it has enough to spare.Buy at AmazonQuick TakeUpgrade your lifestyleDigital Trends helps readers keep tabs on the fast-paced world of tech with all the latest news, fun product reviews, insightful editorials, and one-of-a-kind sneak peeks.source