Impossible to replace the storage in the new iMac models
The new 27-inch model is equipped with tenth-generation Intel Core processors and the T2 security chip.
The other day, Apple launched upgraded 27in iMac models with tenth-generation Intel Core processors offering up to ten cores, twice the memory capacity, next-generation AMD graphics (Radeon Pro 5000 series) and faster SSD storage with up to four times as much high storage capacity as before (8 terabytes).
That might sound like good news to anyone who has been holding off updating their iMac in the hope that Apple would update the range, however, there is a disappointing disadvantage to the new iMac models.
German blog iFun reported that the SSD inside the 27in iMac is soldered onto the logic board, something MacRumors has been able to confirm from looking at a document for Apple technicians. However, that document does indicate that for the larger 4TB and 8TB configurations there is a flash storage expansion board available via a connector on the logic board.
However, despite the presence of this expansion board, it still won’t be possible for users to replace or upgrade the internal storage. This is due to the T2 chip (that handles security and encryption). The only way to update the storage would be to also replace the motherboard at the same time – and to do that would require a visit to an Apple Authorized Service Provider.
Further limiting expansion options: the internal sata port that existed in previous models for use with hard drives or Apple’s own Fusion Drives (which combined an SSD with a hard drive) has also been removed, this is because Apple will now only support SSDs.
However, it’s not all bad news. The first test results have been published by the Japanese site Macotakara, and they look promising.
According to that site, the entry-level model with a 3.1GHz Core i5 processor, saw performance about 20 percent higher than its predecessor. In fact, the results are roughly in line with the old mid-range model with a Core i5 processor of 3.7GHz.
The graphics have also been significantly improved and the models with Radeon Pro 5300 offer about 40 percent higher performance than last year’s models with Radeon Pro 570X.
In addition to the above improvements, the new models also have a better webcam with a resolution of 1080p, something that will no doubt be popular with users who’ve recently become more reliant on video calling than ever.
As for the 5K high-resolution Retina display, Apple has finally added True Tone support. Nanotexture glass is also offered as an option for those who want as few reflections as possible.
Prices for the new 27in models start at £1,799/$1,799 and the computer can, as usual, be ordered from the Apple Store here.
This article was adapted and translated by Karen Haslam from an article on Macworld Sweden.
