Apple may bring back Target Display Mode in iMacs
By ForGeeks
Journalists have recalled the Target Display Mode feature that used to allow the iMac to be used as an external monitor. Apple removed it back in 2015 with the release of the iMac 5K, when Thunderbolt 2 bandwidth wasn’t enough to support high resolutions. The last models with this option were the 2014 iMacs. The company later removed the feature entirely from macOS Mojave and finally buried it in Big Sur.
Why the feature should return
Today’s technical limitations are no more. Today’s iMacs with Apple Silicon chips and Thunderbolt 4 are capable of handling the amount of data they need. Experts say the return of Target Display Mode could help extend the life of the devices by allowing users to turn an old iMac into an additional screen after an upgrade.
Opponents of the idea believe Apple wouldn’t take such a step to avoid undermining Studio Display sales. But it’s still a niche market, and the iMac itself has some limitations: a smaller panel size, less brightness, and white frames that confuse some buyers.
The iMac has a number of limitations: a smaller panel size, less brightness, and white frames that confuse some buyers.
Environmental Factor and Outlook
Bearing in mind Apple’s emphasis on sustainability and going green, bringing back Target Display Mode would seem like a logical step. It would avoid the premature disposal of displays. The next generation Studio Display is expected to feature a 120Hz miniLED panel, making it competitive without severely limiting the iMac’s features.
