Potential iMac Update to Sandy Bridge and Thunderbolt in 4-6 Weeks?

[MacRumors]

As tracked in our Buyer's Guide, the iMac has reached its average update interval, suggesting that we might be able to expect refreshed models to appear some time in the relatively near future. Expectations for revamped iMacs include a move to Sandy Bridge processors and implementation of the new Thunderbolt connectivity standard that debuted in the MacBook Pro last month.

In a series of Tweets (via MacNews.de), CNET's Brian Tong claims to have received word from a reliable source that new iMacs should debut in late April or early May. The updated iMacs are said to feature Sandy Bridge and Thunderbolt as expected, but no major cosmetic changes are reported to be included.

- EXCLUSIVE: My Sources: New iMacs en route by ocean to U.S. available end of April or 1st week of May. No major cosmetic changes.

- My sources say New iMacs will feature Sandy Bridge and Thunderbolt. No other specifics.

- We'll see if this pans out, but I'm highly confident in my source. If you're looking for a new iMac. WAIT FOR IT!

iMac rumors have been relatively sparse in recent months, although DigiTimes indicated in mid-December that Apple was expected to update both the MacBook Pro and iMac in the first half of 2011 with the iMac featuring a new panel size and price points. Just days before the MacBook Pro update in late February, DigiTimes reiterated its claim that may change the screen size on new iMacs, claiming that the new models could debut alongside or soon after the MacBook Pros.

Article Link: Potential iMac Update to Sandy Bridge and Thunderbolt in 4-6 Weeks?

 

[Zeldain]

What about the Mac Pro? It's way past due, would that come first, before the iMac?

 

[stockscalper]

Another hot grill coming from Apple! This one will be big enough to fry steaks!

 

[Wilbah]

I find it funny...

That the "pro" line- as in Mac Pro tower - will be the last in the line of machines to get the "thunderbolt" connectivity option.

 

[R2D2 xx]

What about the Mac Pro? It's way past due, would that come first, before the iMac?

apple doesn't sell as many mac pro's so it's at the end of the list

 

[winty03]

Come on refresh, just the news I wanted to hear!

 

[Micjose]

Finally some Mac rumors..

 

[Lesser Evets]

Pity they didn't slim down the iMac by choppin' the chin (assuming this rumor is true). Can't wait to see what they release. The old "smaller iMac" rumor priced for the "mass market" kept me interested in the next iMac update--hope to see something trimmed for the "mass market".

Figured iMacs would update in April.

 

[haddman]

Balls! I just bought a new 27in iMac like 3-4 weeks ago! Oh well, I have been wanting replace my PC with a mac for like over a year, and I love it.

 

[LagunaSol]

Please bring back the 24"! 21" - too small. 27" - too big. 24" - just right!

I'm sticking with my 24" Core2Duo until a new 24" model is released.

 

[applebro24]

Come on Mac Mini update; well overdue for a refresh. That Core 2 Duo is keeping me from buying.

 

[kavika411]

Newbie question - please don't flame me.

How big of a transition is this, as compared - for example - to the Intel chip back around 2006? What I mean is, after the transition to Intel, certain software and eventually the newest operating system itself could no longer be run on the old chip. So, is this transition as significant as that, or is this more of a speed boost kind of thing?

Thanks.

 

[jpjandrade]

Filled under "No ****, Sherlock"

 

[cube]

Another crippled machine. I doubt Apple will show how bad their connector overloading is.

 

[jpjandrade]

Newbie question - please don't flame me.

How big of a transition is this, as compared - for example - to the Intel chip back around 2006? What I mean is, after the transition to Intel, certain software and eventually the newest operating system itself could no longer be run on the old chip. So, is this transition as significant as that, or is this more of a speed boost kind of thing?

Thanks.

Simply a speed boost. A huge one, but just a speed boost.

 

[JackieTreehorn]

Still lovin' my 2009 iMac.... best machine I've ever owned.

 

[Rocketman]

I want to know where to get a list of products that hook onto Thunderbolt.

Rocketman

 

[Charlie Sheen]

Finally some Mac rumors..

ok that were the mac rumors. now there will be ios rumors for the next 3 months

 

[TallManNY]

Good news. My Mom needs a new iMac due to screen issues on her ancient machine, so she will be getting my hand-me-down 24-inch Core 2 and I will be buying an upgrade. I would like to see the 24-inch come back, but will probably consider and go with the 27-inch.

Hope these machines don't run too hot or have too many mechanical problems. As long as Apple doesn't unnecessarily try to make these things another 1/4 inch thin, then I'm guessing these are okay right off the bat.

 

[C00rDiNaT0r]

Even bigger screens? They're getting closer to replacing bedroom TV's now..

 

[Macginger]

I want to know where to get a list of products that hook onto Thunderbolt.

Rocketman

google thunderbolt and you'll find it, or at least what people are planning on bringing out but it's out there

ok did it for you

http://www.lacie.com/us/index.htm

 

[daneoni]

What about the Mac Pro? It's way past due, would that come first, before the iMac?

Late 2011/early 2012 last i heard

 

[Dorfdad]

Great news as I have been riding out my 2007 iMac and was tempted to buy one a few weeks ago. Glad I waited and will be first in line for the new iMac's! Wonder what problems we will face though? As it seems all new launches have. Anyone want to buy a Mint 24" 2007 with a 500gb HD (Fall 2007) Ati radeon 2600 Pro?

 

[Slix]

Glad to see Thunderbolt coming to more products.

 

[BornAgainMac]

How are you MBP owners liking your Thunderbolt port? Do you feel like someone with a DVD disk in 1975?