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iMac G4 gets M4 Mac mini upgrade

AppleInsider •
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A new kit allows users to fuse the iconic design of the iMac G4 with the performance of a modern Mac mini powered by Apple's M4 chip. The original iMac G4, released in 2002, is celebrated for its distinctive aesthetic but is limited by its outdated IBM PowerPC processor. This conversion kit offers a way to revitalize the classic machine.

The process involves integrating a Mac mini directly into the iMac G4's base, with the entire setup being reversible. The kit, priced at $369, includes a PCB for routing USB, audio, and video to the original LCD display, along with necessary cables and a solenoid to activate the Mac mini's power button. Ports such as USB-C, audio out, and microphone remain accessible, and even the original Apple Pro speakers and built-in display are functional.

Currently, the kit is compatible with the 17-inch iMac G4 models featuring a 1GHz or 1.25GHz chip. The required iMac G4 units can be found on eBay for around $300, and a Mac mini costs an additional $699. This project combines the beloved design of a classic Apple computer with the cutting-edge performance of current Apple Silicon.