Apple to Reportedly Launch Faster, Cheaper iMacs Next Week

Apple could roll out slightly refreshed iMacs next week, according to a speculative report first published by French website MacGeneration, cited by AppleInsider. The new models are expected to have only minor processor speed bumps and will be released without any major event or announcement from Apple.

The company recently refreshed its MacBook Air line with similarly minor changes, in line with slightly faster processors rolled out by Apple's supplier Intel thanks to maturing manufacturing processes. Apple could also introduce a lower-priced entry-level iMac configuration or reduce prices across the lineup. The iMac currently starts at Rs. 99,900 in India for the base 21.5-inch model, which is somewhat of a deterrent for buyers. MacBook Air prices were reduced by $100 when the updated models were introduced, although this translated to a reduction of only Rs. 2,000 in India.

Apple was earlier rumoured to have been planning to announce a new low-cost iMac model at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, which was held in early June. Entirely new models could still launch before the end of the year, possibly with Retina-class screens, along with a rumoured new fanless 12-inch laptop.

The company has repeatedly teased that there will be several high-profile product launches before the end of 2014, possibly not just limited to new versions of existing products. A wearable device has long been rumoured, and it is almost certain at this point that Apple is also working on new iPhone models with larger screens.