AppleInsider Staff
Apple recently updated its online store to reflect availability of a new VESA mount-compatible iMac, with the tweaked version of the thin all-in-one costing in at $40 more than standard models.
First spotted by German Apple blog iFun, the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) compatibility is likely to be a welcome addition for users who are already invested in the mounting standard.
When Apple first announced the redesigned iMac in October, it was discovered that unlike previous models, the new machines could not be used with standard VESA mounts. In response to feedback from users disappointed in the change, Apple said it was taking the idea of adding the capability into consideration, but offered no concrete details as to when a solution would be made available.
From Apple's description of the new VESA-compatible iMac models:
The iMac with Built-in VESA Mount Adapter is ready to pair with your favorite VESA-compatible wall mount, desk mount, or articulating arm (sold separately). This iMac doesn't include a stand, so a mount is required. If you don't already have a mount, you can purchase one when you configure your iMac.
The VESA models are not highly advertised on Apple's Online Store, and are nowhere to be seen on the main product page, though a link at the bottom of the iMac configuration tool will take customers to a webpage dedicated to the new versions.
Apple is charging a $40 premium for the ability to use VESA mounts with the iMac. The special configuration is on sale now with shipping estimates starting at 7 to 10 days.
Andrew Orr
Amber Neely
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
53 Comments
Nice touch Apple! Perhaps this is a spin off from the upcoming 60" Apple TV? ;)
It looks like it's been added on after the normal manufacturing process as an afterthought. This might be the only way they could include one, however, as the necessary arm attachment hardware would have extended into the area containing the iMac computer hardware. Looks aside, I see this as Apple making a change for a minority user, something I like. If they actually attached this mount during manufacturing, this means they have a separate production line using this rear housing. If this is true, then maybe they will begin to offer further customization on other production lines for those enterprise users who want to have the disk, WiFi, bluetooth, or microphone removed for security purposes. (If you have to ask why, you're not one of those users.)
[quote name="rob53" url="/t/156466/apple-now-offering-imacs-with-built-in-vesa-mount-adapters-for-40-premium#post_2293094"]It looks like it's been added on after the normal manufacturing process as an afterthought. This might be the only way they could include one, however, as the necessary arm attachment hardware would have extended into the area containing the iMac computer hardware. Looks aside, I see this as Apple making a change for a minority user, something I like. If they actually attached this mount during manufacturing, this means they have a separate production line using this rear housing. If this is true, then maybe they will begin to offer further customization on other production lines for those enterprise users who want to have the disk, WiFi, bluetooth, or microphone removed for security purposes. (If you have to ask why, you're not one of those users.)[/quote] Not sure why it would require a separate production line. The mount could simply be added to the backs before assembly. I wonder how long before we hear "How dare they charge $40 for a mount that's only $0.20 worth of aluminum? Those ba$tards. It ought to be standard."?
Nice move. It wasn't that hard to do from what I can tell; it just needs to be screwed in from inside the enclosure. Aesthetically it would have been cool for it to all be integrated into the case... but it is hidden by the arm so who really cares. Wish it was available at retail (prefer to buy in-store for big things), but at least I don't have to switch to a MacMini for my needs.
How dare they charge $40 for a mount that's only $0.20 worth of aluminum? Those ba$tards. It ought to be standard.