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iMac 2017 release date, specs rumors: Touch bar function to be added, release set on March 2017?

A sales assistant shows features of iOS 9 on an Apple iMac at an Apple reseller shop in Bangkok Sept. 18, 2015. | Reuters/Chaiwat Subprasom

After skipping the Apple's October 2016 event, the latest iMac is speculated to be launched early next year instead.

According to reports, the new generation of iMac will have high-tech features including the Touch Bar—similar to that on the latest MacBook Pro. Due to its interactive commands that change from app to app, the multi-touch OLED strip is a good addition since it improves users' productivity.

Apple's next generation of the all-in-one desktop line is also said to feature AMD's Polaris 10 graphics architecture and Intel's Kaby Lake processor. If the speculations are proven true, it would now be possible for iMac users to explore VR (virtual reality) technology aided by an AMD Radeon RX GPU. With the graphics processor significantly improved, the new iMac could have huge performance gains, less waste heat and a possible power draw reduction.Rumor has it that it could even be launched as a gaming desktop to compete with the company's rival Microsoft. Other notable features included in the next-gen iMac are the USB 3.1 and Thunderbolt 3 ports.

To date, little is known about how the tech giant is planning to price their newest range of iMacs. Based on this year's releases, the iMac 2017 will surely see a huge hike in its prices. Reports point out that the MacBook Pro 2016 is one of the most expensive laptops currently in the market despite its lack of performance upgrades. Aside from the MacBook Pro, Apple has hiked the prices of most of its existing range of devices, including the iMac 4K, iMac 5K and Mac mini. Since the current range of iMacs is priced between $1,099 (21.5-inch variant) and $1,999 (27-inch 5K variant), it is safe to say that the new iMac 2017 will be significantly higher than its predecessor's price.

The newest version of iMac is expected to be launched in March 2017.