Is Apple’s upcoming M4 Mac event still happening?

The recent M4 MacBook Pro leaks have sparked significant debate, with many pointing out a curious detail: the box features the same black-and-gray wallpaper used for the M3 MacBook Pros. For some, this reuse of an old wallpaper raised doubts about the authenticity of the leaks. However, there could be more to this than meets the eye.

Historically, Apple always introduces new wallpaper alongside its MacBook Pro releases, so this lack of change initially seemed like a red flag. Yet, it might actually signal something different—that Apple may not hold a grand October event this year at all. Typically, new MacBook Pro models are launched during an event, but reusing a wallpaper could hint at a more subdued release, perhaps via a press announcement rather than a full event.

Apple recently launched updates to its iPad mini and made subtle tweaks to other devices, signaling a potential shift in strategy for its fall releases. If the MacBook Pro’s updates are more minor, such as introducing the M4 chip and small hardware tweaks, there may not be enough to justify an entire event. This theory gains weight considering reports from reputable sources like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who vouches for the authenticity of the leaks, despite the wallpaper oddity.

If this scenario unfolds, Apple may release the new MacBook Pros with less fanfare, making the wallpaper choice less of a visual faux pas since it won’t be showcased at a major event. With the rumored November 1 release date approaching, the clock is ticking on an official announcement.