The next steps in testing Apple’s new stuff is to install macOS Big Sur on an external drive connected to my 2017 iMac. Next, following reactions and comments on beta 2 later this week, I may jump on iPadOS 14 for my iPad.

Brent Simmons’ enthusiasm about the Mac is refreshing because part of Mac ecosystem health depends on guys like him, not just Apple’s willingness to keep the Mac around. inessential.com

I Had Been Worried About the Mac

Which Mac will go first to ARM? My take. #apple #armmac #applesilicon

Which Mac will transition first to Apple Silicon? Will Apple start with the desktop or the portables? That is the question. I would say, the desktop, but…

On the first Mac to be converted to ARM: my bet goes on the Mac mini, a lower volume, utility orientated machine for the Mac enthusiasts. Next, the iMac redesign where any perf discrepancies with the MacBook is more easily explanable (desktop versus laptop, you know). But…

…my confidence level in this theory will be negatively impacted by the actual release of a rumoured redesigned iMac but with an Intel processor instead. Rumors are circulating about a published benchmark with a 10 cores Intel CPU in a new iMac design. If Apple did release this machine, it would send a clear message: they will continue to support Intel machines for a long time. But…

…launching an iMac redesign with an Apple Silicon inside would make a much better marketing story: something like a powerful Apple Silicon powering a brand new design with unique features (fan-less design, FaceID, or even… touch input support?). But…

…I concede the fact that price/watt ratio is much more useful and lends much more practical advantages on a portable product than on the desktop where space and energy are less constrained which puts some doubts on my take.

Finally, about the Mac Pro conversion to ARM. My gut feeling is that it will be the last to be converted… with A16 CPU? Who knows.

PS: I would expect Apple to re-introduce their illuminated logo on the MacBook. A sign of Apple’s enthusiast returning to the Mac.

Daring Fireball: On Ming-Chi Kuo’s Report of a 24-Inch ARM iMac