If you’re thinking of upgrading your tech setup, Apple’s newest M4 lineup might be exactly what you’re looking for. The MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac with M4 chips are now available for pre-order at South Africa’s iStore, bringing major improvements in speed, graphics, and on-device privacy-focused AI that aims to boost productivity. Here’s everything you need to know before you place an order.
The MacBook Pro: Unmatched Speed and Power for Heavy-Duty Work
Starting at R34,999, the MacBook Pro isn’t just a laptop; it’s a full-scale workstation in a portable form. Built with the M4 Pro or M4 Max chip, it handles intensive tasks like a breeze. From editing 4K videos to running multiple demanding apps simultaneously, the MacBook Pro has been engineered for users who need both power and efficiency.
One highlight for MacBook Pro users is the inclusion of hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a feature that makes visuals crisper and more realistic. Whether you’re a video editor or a creative professional, this improvement will make your workflow noticeably faster and smoother.
Introducing Apple Intelligence: The AI That Prioritises Your Privacy
A major talking point for this lineup is Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new AI that lives directly on the device. Unlike typical AI assistants that send data to the cloud, Apple Intelligence processes information locally. For privacy-focused users, this is a huge benefit, especially in today’s data-sensitive world.
Apple Intelligence can help with tasks like text rewriting, creating summaries, and analysing data without ever uploading data externally. If you work in sensitive fields like finance, law, or creative industries where privacy is crucial, this feature might be one of the biggest selling points of the new lineup.
Mac Mini: Compact, Affordable, and Surprisingly Powerful
At R13,199, the new Mac mini is one of the most affordable ways to access Apple’s powerful M4 chips. Despite its small size, it’s packed with either the M4 or M4 Pro chip, making it capable of handling heavy tasks without breaking a sweat. The Mac mini’s compact design also means it’s perfect for setups where space is limited.
In addition to its power, the Mac mini has another unique quality — it’s Apple’s first carbon-neutral desktop. Built with recycled materials and designed to be highly energy-efficient, the Mac mini appeals to eco-conscious users who want high performance without a heavy environmental footprint.
The iMac: Beautiful Design Meets Impressive Functionality
Starting at R31,799, the iMac with the base M4 chip is designed to provide a seamless experience in both performance and aesthetics. Available in vibrant colours, it’s a visually striking addition to any workspace, but there’s much more than meets the eye.
The 4.5K Retina display delivers stunning visuals with over a billion colours and 500 nits of brightness, ideal for creative professionals or anyone who spends a lot of time looking at a screen. The new iMac also has enhanced audio and video capabilities, featuring a 12MP camera, studio-quality mics, and a six-speaker Spatial Audio system that’s perfect for video calls and multimedia use.
Final Thoughts: Is the M4 Lineup Worth the Investment?
The M4-powered Mac lineup is packed with features that make it a solid investment. Whether you’re a professional who needs high-powered hardware, a student looking for efficient tools, or an eco-conscious buyer, this release from Apple has something for everyone.
Pre-ordering from iStore means you’ll be among the first to experience Apple’s latest advancements in South Africa. With starting prices at R13,199 for the Mac mini, R31,799 for the iMac, and R34,999 for the MacBook Pro, there’s an option for every budget. This lineup is more than an upgrade; it’s a step toward a future of more powerful, private, and environmentally responsible computing.
