Why doesn't the new iMac work with the Apple Optical Drive?

From the Related Article document at the top of this page...

The Apple USB SuperDrive is compatible with Mac computers introduced in 2008 or later that don't have a built-in optical drive.

The biggest mistake users make is trying to connect the optical drive via a USB Hub or Dock. You MUST connect the drive to a port on your iMac only, using an adapter.

As has been said a number of times here, a SuperDrive works with Apple silicon Macs including the new 24" M1 iMac when the drive is attached directly into a port using any number of adapters including…

USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple

USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter - Apple

or even cheap USB to USB C adapters from Amazon among others.

The drive has to be working of course and be right side up, black side down.

it should be working. as long as you are using the apple branded USB-C to USB Adapter or the apple branded USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter. if you are using a third party adapter, or an apple adapter other than those two that I mentioned, it may not work.

I think that drive may have had special power requirements or a special power handshake.

Something that Macs with built-in optical drives or third-party adapters and hubs might not know about. Hence the “interesting” compatibility requirements.

Also, you are not addressing Apple on these forums. We are all end users just like you. If you need to speak to someone from Apple, I'd suggest you begin by calling AppleCare. To find the phone number for your area please click AppleCare Contact Info

Maybe the drive is defective. Ours work perfectly on a pair of new 24" iMacs when attached directly.