Apple will officially kick off the Mac’s transition to the M1 chip successor, M4, next month, with several high-profile models set to make the switch. Here’s everything we currently know about the upcoming redesigned Mac mini: with a brand-new layout, two distinct M4 variants, and more.
New Mac mini design
Initially released in 2005, the Mac mini received its first significant overhaul in 2010, transitioning to a sleek unibody aluminum casing and abandoning the optical drive in favor of a more streamlined design. For nearly 14 years, the iconic design of the Mac mini has remained consistent, but all that could be poised to change in the coming months.
Apple is reportedly preparing a completely revamped Mac mini. A significant potential shift could be substantial price reductions on a large scale. The rumoured new Mac mini is expected to be significantly smaller than its predecessor, with a design resembling that of the Apple TV, featuring a compact form factor.
The current dimensions of the Apple TV 4K are as follows:
- 1.2 inches (31 mm)
- 3.66 inches (93 mm)
- 3.66 inches (93 mm)
Despite its compact size, the M4-powered Mac mini’s overall dimensions are slightly larger than those of its predecessor. The current specifications are as follows:
- : 1.41 inches (3.58 cm)
- : 7.75 inches (19.70 cm)
- : 7.75 inches (19.70 cm)
Given these dimensions, the M4 Mac mini is likely to be roughly half the size of the current model. The price reduction on this compact Mac is nothing short of impressive, considering its already modest size.
Efficiency
According to reports, Apple’s upcoming Mac mini is expected to arrive in two distinct configurations: one featuring an M4 chip and another with a more powerful M4 Pro chip. The new Mac mini aligns with its predecessor, offering options for both the M2 chip and the M2 Pro processor.
The Mac mini’s bottom-most M4 chip shares similarities with the one found in the latest iPad Pro. The M4 Professional model may be configured to accommodate greater unified memory capacities and enhanced graphics performance.
We’re eager to learn more about the specific configurations of the new M4-powered Mac mini models. In contrast to the current M2 Mac mini, which tops out at 16GB of RAM, the M2 Professional model is capable of supporting up to 32GB of unified memory. Whether the M4 fashion can scale beyond its current limits remains to be seen.
Connectivity
The available next connectivity options are:
- Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Two USB-A ports with speeds of up to 5Gb/s.
- HDMI port
- High-speed Gigabit Ethernet port, configurable to support blazing-fast 10 Gb Ethernet connectivity.
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
The M2 Professional Mac mini offers the same connectivity options, but now features four Thunderbolt 4 ports instead of two.
Positioned strategically at the rear gate and two at the main entrance for easy access. Evidence in Apple’s internal systems confirms the launch of an entirely new Apple Silicon-powered Mac mini boasting an impressive five ports.
Whether the M4 model of the Mac mini will feature fewer USB-C ports compared to its Professional counterpart remains to be seen.
The brand-new Mac mini features a range of connectivity options, including USB-C ports, as well as an HDMI port, a traditional headphone jack, and reliable Ethernet connectivity. The internal capacity to offer might persist as well.
New Mac mini launch date
Apple is expected to focus its attention on transitioning the Mac lineup to the M4 processor. The latest Macs and Mac mini models are now set to begin arriving at customers’ doorsteps, marking the successful rollout of these innovative products. One report suggests holding the occasion in early October, potentially at the beginning of the month.
Rumors of a Mac mini redesign have been circulating for months, with many speculating that Apple will unveil a refreshed version of its compact desktop computer at WWDC. Sources claim that the new Mac mini will feature a smaller footprint, improved thermal management, and enhanced performance capabilities. Some rumors even suggest that the device could be powered by an A-series processor, marking a departure from Intel-based Mac minis of the past. With no official confirmation from Apple, only time will tell if these rumors turn out to be true. Are you considering placing a procurement order? Tell us within the feedback.
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