Apple’s latest beta of OS X 10.11 El Capitan contains some references to a pair of possible future Apple hardware releases: a new 4K 21.5-inch iMac, and a Bluetooth Remote Control.
Likely destined for a refreshed version of the 21.5-inch iMac, which currently does not have a Retina display, the new El Capitan beta references Mac support for a new 4096 x 2304 resolution Apple-made display panel. While the larger, more expensive 27-inch iMac is offered with a 5K display, it could make sense for the smaller screen to be upgraded to a 4K resolution.
9to5Mac notes that the 4K panel reference is not present in any version of Yosemite. El Capitan also contains references to a new Intel graphics chipset, the “Iris Pro 6200.” The new GPU, which is integrated into the new Broadwell processor launched by Intel earlier this month, would be perfect for powering a 4K iMac.
The search of the beta also found references to four new AMD Radeon R9 processors (M380, M390, M395 and M395X), which could indicate additional Mac models, or possibly 4K iMac upgrade options.
Another file included with El Capitan indicates Apple is indeed working on a new Bluetooth Remote Control, which includes a dedicated Bluetooth wireless chips, the ability to connect with devices via an infrared sensor, and a Multi-Touch trackpad with inertial scrolling support. The device also appears to support audio, possibly enabling input for Siri. 9to5Mac also noted there is a reference to what could be Force Touch support, but they were less certain about that.
El Capitan is currently available only members of the Mac Developer Program. A public beta will be available in July. The final version will be available free, via the Mac App Store this fall. Customers interested in signing up for the public beta can visit the El Capitan preview page for more details.
