Apple enthusiasts, get ready! The next generation of the Mac Studio is on the horizon, and it's packing some serious power. We're talking about the M4 Mac Studio, and the rumors are already swirling. From potential release dates to anticipated specs, here's everything we know so far about this powerhouse desktop.
Release Date: When Can You Get Your Hands On It?
If history is any indication, Apple tends to stick to a predictable schedule. The M1 Max and Ultra Mac Studio debuted in March 2022, followed by the M2 Max and Ultra at WWDC23 in June 2023. So, when can we expect the M4 version?
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the M4 Mac Studio was initially slated for a release between January and March 2025. However, it seems Apple has shifted gears, pushing the launch window to somewhere between March and June 2025. Gurman even tweeted on March 4, 2025, that the new Mac Studio is "imminent." So, keep your eyes peeled!
Price: How Much Will It Cost?
As of now, there's no official word on the pricing for the M4 Mac Studio. However, we can look at the current M2 Mac Studio lineup for some clues. The M2 Max configuration starts at $1,999/£2,099, while the M2 Ultra will set you back $3,999/£4,199.
While the U.S. price is likely to remain consistent, there's speculation that the U.K. price might see a decrease, potentially reverting to the original £1,999 launch price due to economic factors. Fingers crossed for our friends across the pond!
Specs and Features: What's Under the Hood?
The biggest upgrade, without a doubt, will be the M4 series chips. Expect to see both M4 Max and M4 Ultra versions powering the new Mac Studio. We already know what the M4 Max brings to the table, thanks to its debut in the MacBook Pro. But the M4 Ultra is where things get really exciting.
Apple's Ultra chips typically combine two Max chips, essentially doubling the CPU and GPU cores. Early Geekbench tests show the M4 Max outperforming the M2 Ultra, so the M4 Ultra promises to be a performance beast. There's even talk of AI-enhanced M4 chips making their way into the Mac Studio, potentially revolutionizing workflows.
Another major anticipated upgrade is the jump to Thunderbolt 5. This will offer a significant improvement over the Thunderbolt 4 ports found on the current Mac Studio. Since the M4 Pro/Max MacBook Pro already boasts Thunderbolt 5, it's a safe bet that the new Mac Studio will follow suit.
However, don't expect any major changes to the overall design. The current Mac Studio form factor seems to be working well for Apple. The only potential tweak might be the addition of a space black color option, matching the sleek aesthetic of the MacBook Pro.
M4 Max and M3 Ultra Combo?
Here's a curveball: Gurman has also suggested that Apple might opt for a combination of an M4 Max and an M3 Ultra, instead of a full-blown M4 Ultra. Why? It's speculated that this could be due to manufacturing constraints or a strategic move to differentiate the Mac Studio from the Mac Pro, which is rumored to feature the M4 Ultra. Time will tell!
"The M4 Max in the new Mac Studio delivers the most significant leap yet in performance."
The M4 Mac Studio is shaping up to be a significant upgrade, offering enhanced performance, faster connectivity, and potentially even a fresh coat of paint. As we inch closer to the anticipated release window, stay tuned for more updates and official announcements from Apple. The power is coming!