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iMac (24-inch, M1, 2021), iMac21,2 data recovery

The iMac (24-inch, M1, 2021) stores your data on flash storage soldered to the logic board, encrypted by the Secure Enclave in the Apple M1 chip. Your data can only be unlocked by this Mac's own chip, so recovery means repairing the logic board until the Mac starts. Never let anyone 'Restore' it in DFU mode: that erases the data. 'Revive' keeps it.

Storage tied to the logic board: board-level recovery

How to identify it

Model identifier
iMac21,2
Model number
A2439
Released
April 2021
Processor
Apple M1 (8-core CPU, 7-core GPU), two ports
Storage
Apple silicon SSD (256 GB SSD standard; 512 GB/1 TB/2 TB option)
Drive connection
NAND soldered to logic board in the chin; no removable storage
Security chip
Secure Enclave in the Apple M1 chip

The model number (A followed by four digits) is printed on the underside or back of the Mac. On a Mac that still starts, the model identifier is in System Information.

Recovery methods for this Mac

  • Logical recoverySoftware-level recovery from a working device
    Yes

    Once the Mac runs, we unlock it with your password and recover deleted files or damaged APFS volumes. Share Disk in macOS Recovery can also give access.

  • Physical recoveryRepairing failed hardware to read the data
    Yes

    Liquid damage, shorts and failed power circuits on the logic board are repaired at component level.

  • Chip-on recoveryReading the NAND in place, through the original controller
    Main method

    This is how your data comes back: board-level repair so the original chip can unlock the storage.

  • Chip-off NAND recoveryRemoving the memory chips and reading them directly
    Not possible

    Not possible. The storage is encrypted with keys inside this Mac's own chip. NAND read on its own, or moved to another Mac, is unreadable.

About this model

  • NAND is soldered and encrypted by the Apple silicon Secure Enclave.
  • Data recovery requires the original, working logic board.
  • Display is adhesive-bonded.
  • Two-port version.

Estimate the cost for your iMac

Answer three questions to see our standard price range. Inspection is free and you get a fixed quote before any work starts.

1. What needs recovering?

Not sure which? Find your Mac by model number.

2. What happened?
3. How quickly do you need it?
Estimated cost£150 – £350excluding VAT

Logical data recovery

Standard turnaround is 5–7 working days.

Send this to us for a fixed quoteAn estimate from our standard price guide, not a quote. Return media is not included.

Other iMac models from 2021

More about iMac data recovery

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