Now You Can Hang Your iMac for $40

The Flat Display Mounting Interface (FDMI), also known as the VESA Mounting Interface Standard (MIS) – or as we all commonly refer to as the VESA mount – is a family of standards defined by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) for mounting flat panel monitors, TVs, and other displays to stands or wall mounts.

It is implemented on most modern flat-panel monitors and TVs.

The first standard in this family was introduced in 1997 and was originally called Flat Panel Monitor Physical Mounting Interface (FPMPMI). It corresponds to part D of the current standard.

But what can you actually mount on it? Until recently, what you couldn’t mount, say, the latest iMac. It was first noted on Appleinsider that the Apple Online Store would now start to offer VESA compatibility for its latest all-in-one iMac.

Of course nothing is free and this additional option will cost $40.

You can obtain this additional option upon the purchase of a 21.5- or 27-inch all-in-one model. If you do spend the extra $40 for the VESA mount option, you have no choice but to hang the unit.

You’ll notice when you open the box that you will not find a stand. According to Appleinsider, what you will find in the box is the iMac with a built-in VESA mount adaptor, Apple wireless keyboard, Apple magic mouse, and of course a power cord.

“Stand not included, desk/wall mount sold separately,” the product holds, meaning if you do not already have a VESA mount, you will have to get one.

Apple’s online store explains, "The iMac with Built-in VESA Mount Adapter is ready to pair with your favorite VESA-compatible wall mount, desk mount, or articulating arm (sold separately). This iMac doesn't include a stand, so a mount is required. If you don't already have a mount, you can purchase one when you configure your iMac."

I believe Apple is actually offering people one of two desktop mounting solutions. Both options are from a company called Bretford. One carries an additional mount arm that allows you to place a MacBook or mount a second display or iMac on the same stand.

The mounting hardware built into the iMacs will work with any third-party mounts as well.