Is the iMac going to be pitted against Microsoft's desktop PC launch?

According to reports, there is a strong possibility that the latest iMac may be released almost in time with Microsoft's launch on Oct. 26. This was supported by a mistaken posting by Best Buy indicating an October release. Pundits claim that the posting may have been made in advance, but may carry a hint of truth in it because retailers often get their information earlier when it comes to product deliveries.

Based on a post by iTechPost, the device will come out with the Kaby Lake chipset, which is one of the most highly anticipated processrs for the year. It's a 7^th Gen Intel processor which gives users the abiliy to process more enhanced graphics. It will also give the iMac support USB 3.1, Display Port 1.2, and Thunderbolt.

However, while it is rumored to come out later in the year, there has been no confirmation whether it will arrive in time for the rumored release of the iMac.

According to a report by Tech Radar, the upcoming Kaby Lake release includes desktop CPUs, Intel Core i3/i5/i7 laptop CPUs, new Core M chipsets, and server-class models.

If the iMac does manage to use Kaby Lake along with the latest AMD processor using Polaris 10 graphics card, it would be a serious threat to Microsoft Surface's AIO. Should it manage to get its hands on the Kaby Lake, Apple will be the first company to tap into its potential wealth of power and features to further get ahead of the steadily growing more competitive market.

Aside from the latest processor and chipset, the iMac is also expected to provide support for VR as well as external flash drives. 

However, pending official statements from Apple, these are all just speculations and rumors for the time being.