Apple’s ‘It’s Glowtime’ event was a whirlwind of new products, including the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series, revamped Apple Watches, upgraded AirPods, and more. However, one notable absence from the stage was the Mac. Where were the updates to Apple’s computer lineup? If you’re wondering why Macs were left out of the spotlight and when we can expect new releases, you’ve come to the right place.
Apple’s September event was jam-packed. The company squeezed a lot into its runtime, showcasing new phones, smartwatches, headphones, and accessories, each getting ample time for Apple to explain their features. This is a common pattern for Apple’s September events. The company typically splits its iPhone and Mac announcements into separate shows, with the Mac announcements often landing in October. This year is likely to follow the same pattern, with rumors about an October event already circulating. This strategy makes sense, as it gives Apple enough time to delve into each product without stretching the show into a marathon.
Consider the sheer volume of products unveiled at the ‘Glowtime’ event:
* Four new iPhones: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max
* Two new Apple Watches: Apple Watch Series 10 and an upgraded Apple Watch Ultra
* Three new AirPods models: Entry-level, mid-tier, and a new AirPods Max set
* Accessories for the new products: iPhone cases and Watch bands
And that’s not even counting the software updates discussed, like further details on Apple Intelligence. In essence, the ‘Glowtime’ event was already packed with announcements, even without the addition of any Mac products. It’s unlikely that Apple could have squeezed in new computers alongside everything else without extending the show beyond a reasonable length. Therefore, postponing the Mac reveals to another event seems like a wise move.
The Mac wasn’t the only product holding back a dedicated event. Apple has a plethora of other products ready to be unveiled. Focusing on the Mac specifically, according to recent rumors and predictions, we can expect to see the MacBook Pro in two sizes with various chip options, an iMac refresh, and a new Mac mini with a redesigned chassis and multiple chip choices. That’s a considerable number of Macs for Apple to discuss.
Then there’s the M4 chip series, set to make its debut with the new Macs. Apple is expected to unveil at least three variants: the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max. Each of these will require its own time in the spotlight.
And let’s not forget the iPad. Prominent Apple journalist Mark Gurman has hinted that at least one model, the iPad mini, might share the stage with the Mac during Apple’s October event. Additionally, hidden code referencing unreleased iPads suggests that several models could be on the horizon.
Even if Apple had trimmed down some of the products showcased at the ‘Glowtime’ event, it’s highly improbable that they would have had enough time to cover all the waiting Macs and iPads. A separate event seems necessary.
Beyond the packed schedule, other factors may have contributed to the Mac’s absence from the ‘Glowtime’ event. Apple dedicated significant time to discussing Apple Intelligence, its major artificial intelligence (AI) platform unveiled at WWDC, and its new operating systems like iOS 18. These topics, added to the mix, would have further squeezed the Mac’s time.
There’s also the possibility that Apple’s new Macs are not quite ready and need additional time for finishing touches. While Apple typically has its new products finalized well before an event, it’s not entirely out of the question.
With the next Apple event likely scheduled for October, the time frame Apple typically uses to launch new Macs, we won’t have to wait long to see the next generation of Macs take center stage. So, even though they were noticeably absent from the ‘Glowtime’ iPhone show, the wait for new Macs won’t be too long.
