Apple is reportedly targeting the release of a premium “gaming-focused” Mac in 2020 as it looks to appeal to a new generation of Esports and streaming professionals.
Gaming has become more of a focus at Cupertino HQ during the last 12 months following the launch of Apple Arcade, a monthly subscription service based around unique and compelling experiences on mobile devices.
Rumours suggest that it is now considering further investments into gaming and that an Esports-centric personal computer could be in line for release by the middle of next year.
“According to supply chain sources, in addition to the high unit price of Apple’s new gaming PC products, it may be a large all-in-one (AIO) or a large-screen gaming laptop,” the rumour stated.
The new device would go toe to toe with other pre-built gaming PCs in the high-end segment of the market and is expected to retail for up to $5,000.
Apple has released more expensive hardware recently, with the standard Mac Pro coming at $6,000 and a 32-inch LCD monitor retailing for $4,999, so a new device at around that price point would make sense.
Specific details about the Esports Mac are thin on the ground, but it is likely to feature an AMD graphics card and be powered by the latest Intel CPUs.
Apple is believed to be preparing for an official announcement at the Global Developer Conference (WWDC), which will take place in early June in California.
Apple has never before ventured into the Esports PC field, so it would be a bold new step for the company if the product does see the light of day.
The high price means that it is unlikely to appeal to the masses, but those serious about games such as Fortnite and League of Legends may be interested if they can get the very best experience.