iMac 2021 release date: Two new devices are reportedly spotted in macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta 5 codes

The latest beta version of macOS Big Sur 11.3 adds to the speculations that at least two new models of iMac are in the pipeline. Apple has been rumored to refresh its all-in-one Mac line this year, especially after it discontinued several models in previous weeks.

Latest macOS Big Sure beta version hints at two new iMacs in the works

Apple just released the macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta 5 this week. Aside from giving Mac users a hint at the changes to be delivered in the next update, it may have also given another piece of evidence that new iMac computers are in the works.

9To5Mac reported finding references to new the new iMacs that are named “iMac21,1” and “iMac21,2” in the macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta 5 codes. The publication notes, though, that the numbers do not seem to represent the screen sizes of the upcoming all-in-one PCs.

The report also mentioned that the unannounced iMacs were labeled with model numbers J456 and J457. These were the same identifiers Bloomberg provided in its January report about the upcoming iMac products that would replace the currently available 21.5-inch and 27-inch models.

Apple discontinued several products over the last few weeks, including the iMac Pro and the first HomePod. While customers can still purchase the latest 21.5-inch and 27-inch iMacs, Apple has quietly removed some of its configurations from its official store adding more weight to the rumored iMac refresh this year.

iMac redesign, release date: What to expect

This year is expected to become a big one for the iMac line as multiple sources reported Apple is planning a significant redesign for the upcoming iMac computers. In the same Bloomberg report, the upcoming all-in-one computers will reportedly have a flat back while its side bezels and wide chin are expected to be reduced making it look more like the Pro Display XDR monitor. Meanwhile, Jon Prosser also previously reported that Apple would offer a wider array of color options similar to the latest iPad Air.

Apple is also anticipated to expand the adoption of the ARM-based Apple Silicon to the new iMacs. But the company will reportedly use a “next-generation” version of the M1 processor that is also expected to power the next lineup of MacBook Pro. The release date for the new iMacs is still unknown, but all reliable sources expressed confidence they will be launched sometime in 2021.

Featured photo by Amy Hirschi on Unsplash