Disappointed: iMac M1 (2021) Screen Failure - Potential Hardware Defect?

You may hear from other users here, but please understand that what you're going to get from replies in these forums is by nature going to be a skewed view on the issue. People who aren't having problems are very unlikely to post, so who you'll hear from will be users with the same problem. That will have no relationship to the actual number of iMacs like yours and what the incidence of problems might be. Not meaning to be flip, but it's like talking only to people in the hospital about how many people in your community are becoming ill.

Again, whether Apple is aware of any sort of global problem with that model of iMac is something none of us will know. The only way we'll know is if, as I said, Apple were at some point to make a public announcement and offer a repair extension. I consider that unlikely this long after that model was replaced, but none us can know for sure.

The bottom line at this point is that if you want your iMac repaired now or in the near future, you're going to have to pay for it. If and when Apple were to issue a repair extension, they'd probably provide a mechanism for getting reimbursed for the repair (assuming it was done through authorized Apple service). At least, they've done so in the past.

Regards.

One workaround a number of users have gone to is to get a 3rd party monitor and run it off the iMac while darkening the built-in screen. Not an ideal workaround but considerably less expensive than Apple's €800 repair.

With that in mind my next upgrade will be a maxed out Mini with a 32" LG monitor w/speakers.

Just some food for thought.

First, to set your expectations about the Community properly, these are user-to-user forums only. You will never get an official response from any Apple employee here.

That said, unfortunately electronic devices can fail, and sorry to say, that's happened to you. That can happen due to a number of reasons, including but not limited to a static electricity shock, mechanical damage, a power surge, or just a weak component. Since your iMac is long out of warranty, repairs are going to cost money and Apple is very unlikely to discount the cost to you. You can shop around repair shops in your area to see if anyone could do a quality repair for less. Whether you'll find someone is something I can't say.

As to whether Apple knows of widescreen failures in your model of iMac, no one here will know. Unless Apple issues a repair extension program, something possible but very unlikely, then your choices will be either pay to have your Mac repaired or buy another computer.

Regards.

While I am sure that Apple has already heard about the issue, make sure to send your feedback so that your voice will be heard and added to the number of people with the issue:

Product Feedback - Apple