It has long been anticipated that Apple would introduce its new M4 chip into a fresh lineup of Macs, with the main uncertainty being the timing of the release. After the unexpected launch of the iPad mini 7 via a press release last week, there was speculation about whether the new MacBooks might be revealed in a similar fashion.

However, renowned Apple insider Mark Gurman recently posted on X, hinting that the launch is “imminent” and suggested that the new Macs could be unveiled as early as next week, possibly on October 30, or perhaps the day before. Gurman pointed to an Apple “hands-on experience” event scheduled for October 30 in Los Angeles. While it’s unclear if this event will feature the new Mac lineup, it seems likely that Apple will need to announce the devices before the event for journalists and influencers to get a preview.

Continuing his updates, Gurman noted that Apple does not seem to be gathering media at a single location for a keynote or formal presentation. This suggests that the announcement will likely be made online, following a similar format to the iPad mini’s recent launch – possibly via a press release accompanied by a video.

The upcoming announcement is expected to introduce several devices powered by the M4 chip, including an M4-equipped iMac, MacBook Pro, and a redesigned Mac mini, along with new USB-C accessories. There’s also a possibility of a new MacBook Air, although its inclusion is not yet certain.

Reports, including those from Gurman, indicate that stock levels of current Apple products are running low, with no new shipments on the horizon. This is often a strong indicator that an update is imminent. At the moment, the only device featuring the M4 system-on-chip is the iPad Pro, released in May 2024, which might explain why Apple could choose not to delve deeply into the specifics of the M4 chip’s inclusion in the upcoming Macs.

As the launch approaches, stay tuned to Tom’s Guide for up-to-date coverage on Apple’s latest devices and all the essential details.