One Of The Dumbest Things About iMacs

TL;DR

iMac displays have limited usability, frustrating users after upgrades.

Transcript

welcome back everyone i've owned a couple of imacs throughout my lifetime i bought some i've returned some i've kept some you know i still have my you know 2015 imac from several years ago and one of the most annoying things that i just i cannot understand why apple did this is that these displays on these imacs you know both the 2015 you know thro... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥶 Apple’s removal of the Target Display Mode feature has disappointed users who seek to extend the functionality of older iMacs.
• 🫵 Many users view the limitation on iMac displays as a missed opportunity for recycling and promoting sustainability.
• 🥶 Despite the introduction of Universal Control in macOS Monterey, users still feel the need for more comprehensive solutions for utilizing older devices.
• 👔 The frustration is not just about usability; it's also tied to Apple’s emphasis on product longevity and the environment, creating a sense of hypocrisy.
• 🥰 The evolution of iMac hardware over time includes advanced displays that many users would love to utilize as secondary screens for productivity.
• 🥶 As technology progresses, older devices could serve more diverse purposes if allowed to be used creatively, reducing waste.
• 👤 The importance of user feedback is crucial as it can influence how companies like Apple evolve their product capabilities.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why were iMacs capable of being used as secondary displays before 2012, but not after?

Prior to 2013, Apple supported a feature called Target Display Mode, which allowed users to utilize their iMac screens as secondary displays. This feature was removed after the introduction of Retina displays, leaving many frustrated as they could no longer repurpose older but high-quality displays for secondary use.

Q: What are the implications of not being able to use older iMacs as displays?

This limitation leads to unnecessary electronic waste, as older iMacs become obsolete without an easily available repurposing method. Instead of being able to extend their functional lifespan, users are faced with devices that lack versatility, contributing to environmental concerns around e-waste.

Q: How does Universal Control differ from the previous display capabilities?

Universal Control allows users to interact with multiple Macs and iPads seamlessly but does not provide true display sharing. Users can move content between screens but cannot use an iMac as a full second monitor, limiting its usefulness compared to previous functionalities.

Q: Why do some believe Apple is motivated by profit regarding display limitations?

The perception is that by restricting older iMacs from being versatile, users are pushed towards purchasing new displays or other Apple products, creating a cycle of consumption. This strategy seemingly aligns with Apple's business model, where maximizing sales plays a critical role.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker expresses frustration over Apple’s decision to disable the use of iMacs as secondary displays after the 2012 models, especially considering their high-quality screens and overall performance.

• Despite previous capabilities like Target Display Mode, newer iMacs no longer support using the main display with another device, prompting concerns about waste and repurposing older models.

• The introduction of features in macOS Monterey, like Universal Control, offers a workaround for display sharing but falls short of the full display functionality previously available.