Apple’s M4 chips are on the horizon, and these AI-packed processors will roll out across the company’s Mac lineup, Bloomberg reports.
Production on the new chips is expected to begin soon, and will show up on Mac desktops, laptops, and towers in late 2024 and early 2025.
At least three chips with varying capabilities are in the works. Bloomberg says that the “Donan” M4 chip is considered “entry-level,” while the “Brava” chip has more processing power. The most powerful chip that has been leaked thus far, codenamed “Hidra,” may only be included in Apple’s upcoming Mac Pro. Apple’s Donan chips are designed for its next-gen MacBook Air laptops, its most basic MacBook Pro model, and future entry-level Mac mini computers. On the next generation of more expensive MacBook Pros and a Mac mini with more advanced features, Brava chips are anticipated. Although Apple has not made any announcements, the M4 chips will likely highlight Apple’s AI work. Apple could also offer up to 500GB of memory integrated into the M4 processors on its priciest Mac desktop computers. This would assist with on-machine AI processing because AI models run best on high-end CPUs and GPUs and benefit from additional memory and ample storage. According to Bloomberg, Apple’s “big focus this year is to add new artificial intelligence features across its products.” According to reports, Apple is looking into adding AI to smart glasses and AirPods as well as creating robots for your home that are powered by AI. At its annual developer conference in June, it is expected to make AI-related software announcements, including an AI-powered Siri overhaul and iOS 18 Spotlight search enhancements.