macOS Big Sur 11.3 Beta 5 Includes References to Two Unreleased iMacs

Apple is rumored to be working on new versions of the iMac desktop computer, and a launch could be coming in the near future, based on new signs found in the macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta that was released this morning.

2020 iMac Mockup Feature teal
According to 9to5Mac, there are references to two new ‌iMac‌ models in macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta 5, identified as "iMac21,1" and "iMac21,2." The new Macs use the code names J456 and J457, which were first revealed earlier this year by Bloomberg.

We don't yet know when Apple will refresh the ‌iMac‌ lineup, but there are new versions of the 21.5 and 27-inch ‌iMac‌ models in the works. Rumors suggest the new iMacs will feature a design similar to the Pro Display XDR with slimmed down bezels and no metal chin.

Rather than a curved rear design, the new ‌iMac‌ models will feature a flat back, and at least one of the new models will measure in at 23 to 24 inches. Apple silicon chips will be included, and some dubious rumors have pointed toward color options that match the iPad Air colors.

Apple recently discontinued the iMac Pro, which was a high-end ‌iMac‌ option that was first released in 2017. With signs of the new iMacs in the current Big Sur beta and the ‌iMac‌ Pro discontinued and out of stock, we could see the refreshed ‌iMac‌ models in the not too distant future.

Related Roundup: iMac
Buyer's Guide: iMac (Neutral)
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Top Rated Comments

Eduardo1971 Avatar
59 months ago
The wait is killing me!
Hurry up Apple!!!
Score: 32 Votes (Like | Disagree)
ignatius345 Avatar
59 months ago

I hope not. I’m hoping to get one that’ll look nice and sleek
I actually don't care, personally, so long as it's runs fast and cool and they don't introduce any weird new hardware issues or cost a fortune. People get all worked up about the bezels (cue pearl clutching) and "chin" but honestly it doesn't matter to me. It sits on my desk so it's not like I'm trying to keep it compact to put it in my bag or something.

My current 5K iMac is from 2014 and I use it a LOT, so this is definitely a "take my money" item for me.
Score: 22 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BWhaler Avatar
59 months ago
I’d love a 30“ iMac that runs silent
Score: 19 Votes (Like | Disagree)
qoop Avatar
59 months ago
Ideally, I'd like another iMac where the display starts to display dark imperfections — but only in the area where the processor lives. Then, upon reporting this to a certain forum, members will inform me it must be because I have a dirty house or smoke heavily. Upon taking it apart and proving to all that it's a polariser issue, they'll call me a hater. Thanks. :D
Score: 17 Votes (Like | Disagree)
LFC2020 Avatar
59 months ago

Press release launch or do we expect an event before WWDC?
April event ?
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
AlexisV Avatar
59 months ago

Does anyone know what kind of delay there usually is between a software clue like this and a hardware release?
M1 Macs appeared in the 29th October beta of Big Sur. They were announced 10th November.

I suspect second week of April for the new iMac.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)