Apple iMac 2016 release date rumors, specs: AIO with powerful Intel chipset, AMD GPU and VR support coming out sooon?

Apple's iMac AIOApple

Fans are speculating that an upgraded iMac will arrive this year even if the current model has just received an upgrade last October. It is rumored that the ultra-thin all-in-one (AIO) will feature powerful Intel chips, an AMD GPU and will be VR-ready.

Apple is said to be releasing an iMac 2016 model and will be ready to charge head-on with the latest technology. It will be able to compete with powerful Windows-based systems that are also equipped to handle the requirements of the very demanding virtual reality application. The upcoming device will be rocking the fastest chips available in Intel's arsenal, the Kaby Lake chip series, and AMD's latest, Polaris-based graphics card. These are major components needed for VR, University Herald reported.

It is believed that the Cupertino-based tech giant wants to reach a wider market of PC users, and putting out a VR ready machine will hopefully bring in a good number of sales.

Fans are also anticipating that the next-gen AIO will be loaded with macOS Sierra, the latest desktop operating system from Apple.

However, technology enthusiasts predict there is a slim chance that a new generation of iMac will arrive this year. It is too early, and the latest models were upgraded last year. It was also mentioned that there is a bigger chance of a new release next year because of the Cannonlake processor, the successor to the Kaby Lake, Christian Times reported.

Last year's update on the iMac took care of the Retina screen for small-screened models, while the larger models were fitted with Skylake chips. Its GPU received an upgrade almost two years ago. Its Wi-Fi module and flash storage were also upgraded.

For the meantime, fans should take these as rumors as Apple has not issued any official word concerning the iMac 2016.