There has been buzz around the anticipated launch of the Mac Mini M4 later this year, but recent speculation suggests that Apple’s small form factor computer might become even more compact, marking its first design overhaul in over a decade.
As reported by Bloomberg’s esteemed Apple insider Mark Gurman, this new iteration of the Mac Mini is expected to set a record as Apple’s “smallest desktop computer to date.” Allegedly, its dimensions will come close to those of an Apple TV set-top box, according to Gurman’s informants.
The reimagined design is unlikely to significantly alter the functionality of the Mac Mini. Currently, it’s sized at 1970 x 1970 x 358mm; in comparison, the Apple TV 4K measures just 93 x 93 x 31mm. Interestingly, Gurman indicates that this upcoming model may actually be taller than its predecessor to achieve a more compact overall dimension.
This change would make it officially Apple’s most petite desktop offering while potentially attracting many users due to an upgraded M4 chip. This processor is said to be pivotal for Apple’s redesign efforts because it consumes less power—Gurman describes it as “virtually an iPad Pro enclosed in a compact chassis.”
So what enhancements can we expect with the M4-powered Mac Mini? Naturally, it’ll incorporate advanced artificial intelligence features native to macOS Sequoia. Additionally, there are indications that Apple has been exploring configurations that include three USB-C ports on the back (as opposed to two Thunderbolt 4 ports in today’s M2 model), along with an HDMI port similar to what’s currently available.
Two Models Expected
Bloomberg also claims there will be two variants of the Mac Mini: one running on Apple’s base M4 chip and another utilizing an unannounced M4 Pro variant. It appears that production for the basic version could ramp up as early as August for a launch later in this calendar year; however, consumers might need to wait until October for availability regarding the Pro model.
What About Pricing?
A question mark still looms over whether Apple intends to maintain pricing levels on par with its current offerings. The existing model starts at $599 / £649 / AU$999 and reports indicate that “the new iteration may incur lower manufacturing costs.” Nevertheless, it’s unclear if these savings would translate into lower prices—or if they could even lead towards higher price points instead.
Hold Off on Purchasing a New Mac
The prevailing view from our review designated last year’s Mac mini (2023) as “the top-rated mini PC available today,” solidifying its place atop our ranking guide for mini PCs. Introducing both an enhanced M4 chip and revamped aesthetics should bolster its status unless connectivity or performance falters drastically.
The allureof tTheMac mini has always resided withinitsformidable capabilities juxtaposed againstits compact size—allowing users flexibility when choosing keyboards,mice,and monitors separately.Additionally,”ifApple keepsentry-level pricingat$599/£649/AU$999,it’s boundto remain highly sought-afterbybothMacenthusiastsandavidWindowsusers alike!
A significant portionofthes competitionmay infact arisefrom withinAppleitselfA recentBloomberg report reiterates prior speculationsregardingM04 updates slatedforiMacandMacBookProin20241standardrecentrumblingssuggestholding offasync purchasinganuwa costume right nowunless necessaryIthereal occasionsForinstance purchase factoringMacBookAirproposedforget aboutanM-storybutthosewho amend frorroughtiny dallodancelonger awaitsought-Suggest.”
You May Also Enjoy…
- I once disregardedthe ideaofowning amacMini—butI recently boughtone!
- Five areaswhereMac surpassesWindowsoptions salwaysoftalkabout
- Celebreating40yearsofApple’s evolutionary journey—with mealongfortheride allwayseachsteptheme—and some laughs included too!
