Bloomberg: Apple Likely to Hold Mac Launch Event on October 30 or 31

[MacRumors]

Apple is likely planning a Mac-related launch event this month that will take place on either Monday, October 30 or Tuesday, October 31, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

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The well-connected reporter's prediction is based on information obtained from sources with apparent knowledge of Apple's plans, as well as the fact that some existing Mac models are in short supply online and at Apple retail stores.

Gurman notes that several configurations of Apple's 24-inch iMac, 13-inch MacBook Pro, and 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are facing shipping delays running into mid-November. This several-week delay alone is "a clear sign that something is about to happen," says Gurman.

Another reason leads the reporter to believe a Mac announcement will happen next week: Apple's earnings call is due to take place on Thursday, November 2. The last time the company posted its quarterly results in the month of November was in 2018, and that followed an October 30 launch event that saw new iPads and Macs.

Gurman reckons that the most likely Mac to be announced this month is a new 24-inch iMac. The current iMac has not been updated for more than 900 days, and it is the only remaining model in Apple's Mac lineup still using the M1 chip.

He also believes there is a chance we will see new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. This would be somewhat of a surprise, given that Apple only updated its premium MacBook Pros in January 2023. However, as Gurman notes, "an additional update the same year would be unusual, but not inconceivable."

Gurman's latest report reveals little about what improvements the new iMac will bring, but he has previously said that Apple's next iMac will leapfrog the M2 and instead adopt the rumored new M3 chip, bringing performance and efficiency improvements.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1716065994995900691

As for the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro, Gurman said he does not expect any major changes other than new processors, but his latest report stops short on offering specifics. Gurman earlier this month claimed that new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring M3 Pro and M3 Max chips would likely launch between early 2024 and the spring. Gurman may be hedging in his latest predictions, which is likely to lead to speculation that an iterative update to the M2 Pro and M2 Max is coming this year instead.

Gurman says the new MacBook Pro models could include "minor improvements to displays." Notably, DigiTimes recently claimed that Apple will release new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with more efficient mini-LED displays before the end of the year. DigiTimes' report was originally met with skepticism because of the alleged launch timing, but couched in terms of Gurman's latest predictions, there could well be more substance to it after all.

Lastly, MacRumors received information in early October indicating that Apple was preparing to accept some of its latest Mac models for trade-in, suggesting it may be proceeding with plans to release new Mac models. Whether this correlates with the launch of at least one new machine in late October remains to be seen.

Article Link: Bloomberg: Apple Likely to Hold Mac Launch Event on October 30 or 31

 

[Kylo83]

Isn’t it late for press invites, and wasn’t the MacBook Pro only released in Jan, they wouldn’t release a new one in the same year or could they

 

[gpat]

iMacs? Maybe.
MBPs? Not a chance.

 

[VMukhtarov]

So no Sonoma 14.1 this week?

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

If M3 in new iMac, I think MBs with M3 must launch too. Else, with only one Mac on "latest & greatest" I would think it would hurt holiday sales of all other Macs more than the one could compensate. And Vpro seems like it would have to be updated to M3, as I just can't imagine it being rolled out still months from now with "old technology."

Assuming revenue maximization strategy in the most lucrative quarter, my guess remains M2 in new iMac... but if there is an "event" instead of a press release, that seems like it needs to be more than M2 iMac. Hard to imagine revised MBs in display only but still on M2 SOCs... but also hard to imagine M3 with M3 PRO & MAX all hitting together given the scarcity of rumors.

Would Apple update the base Macs to M3 now going into the holidays, basically leaving the pricier-but-popular Mx PRO & MAX-based Macs for 2024? Such a move would shout to those wanting Mx PRO Macs and better to WAIT instead of "buy now" in a very tangible way. Once one sees M3s have arrived, they know that M3 PRO & MAX will soon follow.

Can the wonder product "now with M3" launch 3-6 months AFTER M3 has been introduced, alongside announcements of M3 PRO & MAX and be as exciting? Conceptually, M3 excitement would cool by the Vpro launch, to be revived by PRO & MAX versions... but those would- presumably- NOT be in Vpro launching around the same time... or later.

Are mulitple treats incoming... or is this a Halloween trick?

 

[Apple Knowledge Navigator]

I’m gonna say M3 MBA, 13” MBP, Mac Mini and iMac. Refreshed iPads too?

 

[Funky_Alphonzo]

Only the imac 24 update to m2 seems logical to me… but why an event for that?
Unless there’s another imac model to announce…

 

[Boeingfan]

Gurman again. I wonder if Tim has his address, he might want to slip round for a chat.

 

[Any name]

iMacs? Maybe.
MBPs? Not a chance.

I’m waiting for an M2 MacBook Air or pro refresh that makes memory and ssd prices closer to 2017 specs

 

[BanjoDudeAhoy]

I feel like it would be a bigger event with invitations sent out if this was actually the introduction of the M3 chip.

Updated iMac with M2 (maybe M2 Pro) seems more likely to me.

 

[Bodhitree]

I’m gonna say M3 MBA, 13” MBP, Mac Mini and iMac. Refreshed iPads too?

That makes sense to me. Probably not refreshed iPads.

 

[17fox]

Isn’t it late for press invites, and wasn’t the MacBook Pro only released in Jan, they wouldn’t release a new one in the same year or could they

They could release new MacBook Pros even though it's still 2023, we have already experienced that, but honestly at this point it makes no sense, I'd be surprised if they actually introduce them. Other than that new iMac is more likely.

 

[MayaUser]

Mac event? If its true then its impossible to do an event just for an M2 iMac spec bump
It must be the M3...but i think this is about an press release and not event for that M2 iMac
If invites are not coming Monday, this day, then its just an press release

 

[Tiago L]

It does seem strange to me if they were to update the MBP 14” and 16” given these were updated in January. But it is true that delivery dates for online are now showing mid-November, which is weird.

I bought a new MPB 16” last week and didn’t have any of this November delivery dates for base models. I went to Apple Store in White City (London) and bought one with my company’s EPP discount. So, I really hope they don’t update the MPB 16” now, as my brand new MPB would be immediately outdated lol. But again if they do, I guess I would return it before the end of the 14-day period to swap it for the newer ones. Even if the update is minor I don’t see why I should keep it.

Happy Monday to all

 

[17fox]

Mac event? If its true then its impossible to mac an event for just an M2 iMac spec bump
It must be the M3...but i think this is about an press release and not event for that M2 iMac

Exactly, so far this sounds to be the most realistic assumption.
Actually, we could also get refreshed iPad mini, but it's still not enough to hold an event.

 

[hoorayforhollywood]

My two cents. If it's an 'event' then the iMac will be first up with M2. Therefore "we've made our Mac for everyone even better". Then we're down in the lab with Johny Srouji who introduces the M3 "for our users who demand unimaginable processing power" - etc - and that's the 13" MacBook Pro and possibly both Airs. Third - very unlikely, but they'll need it to make it an event - the M3 Pro and so MacBook Pros / mini complete the intro M3 line up.

M3 Max and Ultra as late as June at WWDC.

The iMac will remain behind with M2 because it's a budget option until they release the larger iMac in a couple of years with M4 Pro / Max. Any word on Mini availability currently? Because that would suggest a big M3 event

 

[ApplesAreSweet&Sour]

They could release new MacBook Pros even though it's still 2023, we have already experienced that, but honestly at this point it makes no sense, I'd be surprised if they actually introduce them. Other than that new iMac is more likely.

For this first batch of M3, I’d expect MBA, Mac mini, MBP 13”, and 24” iMac. All with M3 “plain”. At best, a few of them get an M3 Pro custom configuration.

For M1 and M2, Apple has consistently led with low-end Macs and gradually introduced higher end Macs over several many months.

And I doubt Apple thinks it can wow consumers again by introducing more M2 Macs since it’s been so long since launch and several much higher end M2 Macs have already been introduced several months ago.

 

[17fox]

My two cents. If it's an 'event' then the iMac will be first up with M2. Therefore "we've made our Mac for everyone even better". Then we're down in the lab with Johny Srouji who introduces the M3 "for our users who demand unimaginable processing power" - etc - and that's the 13" MacBook Pro and possibly both Airs. Third - very unlikely, but they'll need it to make it an event - the M3 Pro and so MacBook Pros / mini complete the intro M3 line up.

M3 Max and Ultra as late as June at WWDC.

Honestly, I am not expecting M3 chips earlier than WWDC 2024. Based only on previous M1 and M2 announcements. Both of them were introduced at WWDC

 

[ApplesAreSweet&Sour]

Macoween?

I’m expecting Tim Cook to dress up like a skeleton and for the Apple logo to be a pumpkin 🎃

Then they drop a 24” M3 iMac starting at $2000 and we all scream in horror!!

Spoo00O0oopy!!! 😱😱¡!!!

 

[klasma]

the Apple logo to be a pumpkin 🎃

Then maybe there’ll be Jack-o’-books.

 

[picpicmac]

The well-connected reporter's prediction is based on information obtained from sources with apparent knowledge of Apple's plans, as well as the fact that some existing Mac models are in short supply online and at Apple retail stores.

Gurman notes that several configurations of Apple's 24-inch iMac, 13-inch MacBook Pro, and 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are facing shipping delays running into mid-November. This several-week delay alone is "a clear sign that something is about to happen," says Gurman.

Another reason leads the reporter to believe a Mac announcement will happen next week: Apple's earnings call is due to take place on Thursday, November 2. The last time the company posted its quarterly results in the month of November was in 2018, and that followed an October 30 launch event that saw new iPads and Macs.

Gurman likely just reads forums such as this one.

The first two items have been highlighted here repeatedly.

The last assertion is akin to astrology.

 

[Onimusha370]

These are some of the most inconsistent and strange Mac rumours I've heard in a long time. If there's an actual event rather than just a press release, then I can't help but think we're getting the M3. I just don't think an M2 iMac and a new low end iPad is enough to make up an event.

If it's a full event, I'd think we'll get a decent section on iPads (maybe all of them will be refreshed given the lack of recent updates and availability of new A/M chips?) - and on the Mac side, most of the M2 based machines going to M3.

The only bit that makes no sense to me is the 14/16 inch MBP rumours - I'd be absolutely stunned (and happy) if we get M3 Pro and Max at this event. I did wonder if a minor spec bump, similar to the AirPods Pro in September, could give us a more efficient display (as rumoured) and maybe Thunderbolt 5 if it's ready? But then TB5 while sticking with M2 Pro/Max doesn't make sense, so....... 🧐

Whatever happens I just hope we get something substantial and updates to a number of iPads/Macs.

 

[loby]

Macoween?

Exactly...maybe Apple is putting out false info. to find out who the leakers are inside.

Gurman (like others) try or want to be the "first" to say what comes out to help their credibility (or income), but going back and forth on rumors each week instead makes readers not want to hear him or them anymore...

Apple is playing "Macoween" indeed.

iMac update to M2 and maybe iPad updates "if" an event, but probably a press release "if" just an iMac update.

Have to have an event if M3's are release, so I would think Apple would make a big deal about it and invites would have already gone out.

but hey...who knows really.

 

[headlessmike]

Back in the day, two (and sometimes even three) hardware updates in a year weren't uncommon.

 

[JimmyG]

What' the point in being able to create 24MP HDR stills and 4K HDR video content on one's iDevice if one cannot then further "develop" that content or just set back and enjoy it's output in its full resolution and brightness and dynamic range in which it was created?!

There is a vital tool missing in the chain, full-resolution HDR displays for the "rest of us".

The DNA of both Steve and Tim's Apple (by their own words and actions) is about what one sees, what one hears, what one can create and I full well expect HDR iMacs and HDR Studio displays are in the pipeline to fill out their product line.

"Bicycles for the mind" and all that!