DigiTimes has reportedly learned from anonymous sources that volume production of the next-gen iMac will start this month. The same sources also added that Apple is planning to equip all its Mac products with Retina Displays, and the new iMac will likely feature one in the first place.
The key factor that may prevent the next all-in-one desktop from receiving an ultrahigh-resolution screen is cost, since Retina Displays are pricier than the “Full HD” screens utilized by Windows PC makers. However, Apple could use the high costs associated with Retina Display to advantage in competing with less expensive Windows PC s with lower margins. According to DigiTimes, the company is hoping to leave its rivals behind in terms of screen resolution by quickly expanding Retina Displays to its entire Mac lineup.
The report also noted that Apple could launch the updated iMac alongside the new Mac Pro. Last month, Tim Cook assured disappointed consumers who hadn’t seen the much-awaited desktop refresh that the company is readying a new, “really great” Mac Pro model for 2013 release.
Apple’s iMac is the world’s most popular all-in-one computer. In the first quarter of this year, the California tech giant was able to sale an estimated 1.22 million units. Apple last updated the iMac series, available in 21.5- and 27-inch flavors, in May of 2011, when the devices gained quad-core Sandy Bridge chips along with high-speed Thunderbolt ports.
Throughout this year, multiple reports have suggested the company will upgrade the new iMacs with high-resolution Retina Displays. One recent rumor claimed, though, that Retina Displays would make their way on future iMac models no earlier than 2013 when they are affordable at more reasonable costs.
