The iMac G4, introduced in 2002, remains one of Apple’s most iconic designs. Its unique sunflower aesthetic, featuring a hemispherical base and an adjustable flat-panel display, set it apart from other computers of its time. Despite being over two decades old, the iMac G4’s design continues to captivate enthusiasts and designers alike.
In a remarkable blend of nostalgia and modern technology, Colby Sheets, a self-described tinkerer, has breathed new life into the iMac G4 by integrating it with Apple’s latest operating system, macOS 26 Tahoe. This project not only showcases the timelessness of Apple’s design but also highlights the adaptability of its hardware.
The Journey from 2002 to 2025
The iMac G4 was a significant departure from its predecessor, the iMac G3. Its design featured a flat-screen LCD mounted on an adjustable arm, allowing users to tilt and swivel the display with ease. This flexibility, combined with its sleek white finish, made it a favorite among Apple enthusiasts.
Fast forward to 2021, Colby Sheets embarked on a project to modernize the iMac G4. By transplanting the internals of an M1 Mac mini into the G4’s casing, Sheets successfully merged the classic design with contemporary performance. The original display was adapted to receive video signals through a Thunderbolt port, ensuring compatibility with the new hardware.
Introducing macOS 26 Tahoe and Liquid Glass
In June 2025, Apple unveiled macOS 26, codenamed Tahoe, introducing a new design language called Liquid Glass. This design emphasizes fluidity and transparency, giving the user interface a glass-like appearance. Elements within the system adapt to their environment by reflecting and refracting light, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.
Liquid Glass represents a shift in Apple’s design philosophy, moving away from the flat design cues popularized in previous iterations toward more expressive, skeuomorphic elements. This change has been met with both praise and critique, with some users appreciating the aesthetics and others noting challenges in readability under certain conditions.
A Seamless Integration
Sheets’ integration of macOS 26 Tahoe into the iMac G4 has garnered attention for its seamless blend of old and new. He shared his experience on social media, stating, I really love how nice the Liquid Glass looks when you bring the window behind the dock! Accompanying this statement were photos and videos showcasing the operating system running smoothly on the modified hardware.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing admiration for the project. The combination of the iMac G4’s timeless design and the modern aesthetics of Liquid Glass creates a visual harmony that resonates with both longtime Apple fans and new users.
Technical Challenges and Triumphs
Achieving this integration was not without its challenges. The original iMac G4 was powered by a PowerPC G4 processor, which is incompatible with modern macOS versions designed for Apple’s silicon. By replacing the internal components with those of an M1 Mac mini, Sheets overcame this hurdle. Additionally, he rewired the display to connect via a Thunderbolt port, ensuring that the original screen could function with the new hardware.
This project serves as a testament to the versatility of Apple’s hardware and the dedication of its user community. It also highlights the potential for repurposing and modernizing older devices, extending their lifespan and reducing electronic waste.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Design Integration
The success of this project raises intriguing possibilities for future integrations of classic designs with modern technology. Rumors suggest that Apple may be exploring similar concepts, such as a HomePod with a screen, potentially branded as a HomePad. Such developments indicate a growing appreciation for blending nostalgic design elements with contemporary functionality.
As technology continues to evolve, projects like Sheets’ iMac G4 revival remind us of the enduring appeal of thoughtful design and the endless possibilities that arise when we bridge the past with the present.
