Apple to Launch Redesigned M4 Mac Mini This Year

Apple hasn’t updated its Mac mini desktop lineup since early 2023, when it added M2 and M2 Pro chips and discontinued the last of the Intel models. Reports suggest that this dry spell will soon come to an end as Apple plans to unveil an updated M4 Mac mini later this year.

New Design Features

The redesign is not just about better internals but also aims to create a smaller form factor. Ballooning in size since the initial Mac mini release in 2010, the new model is expected to adopt a design closer in size to an Apple TV box. Key features of the updated Mac mini include:

• New Smaller Design: A more compact form factor that is anticipated to be significantly smaller than the current design.
• Enhanced Port Options: At least three USB-C ports along with a power connector and an HDMI port will be included.

This is the first overhaul of the Mac mini’s design since the original, which was launched over 14 years ago. Previous models, including the M2 Mac mini, retained the same basic dimension as the original aluminum unibody version.

Comparisons with Competitors

The competitive landscape for mini-desktops has evolved, with other PC manufacturers releasing even smaller systems than the Mac mini. Companies like Intel with their NUC desktops have been focusing on space-efficient designs for years. The trend to smaller, more efficient computing devices suggests that the new Mac mini needs to compete on size as well as power.

Retaining Key Features

Despite the redesign, Apple appears committed to maintaining some core features of the Mac mini lineup. Expected specifications include:

• A base model with the standard Apple M4 processor.
• An upgraded version equipped with the yet-to-be-released M4 Pro chip.

The streamlined design of the new mini may lead to fewer ports than current models, but it is hoped that this version will still support multiple external monitors.

Pricing and Availability

As for pricing, it remains uncertain whether Apple will adjust the cost of the Mac mini to coincide with the new design. However, there are indications that the updated model “may be cheaper to make,” which could reflect in its price point.

Release Timeline

The new Mac mini models are anticipated for a release later this year, with the M4 Pro models possibly set for a later announcement. Tech insiders speculate that new iMac and MacBook Pro models featuring M4-series chips could launch “as early as this year.” In contrast, the M4 MacBook Air is expected to debut in spring 2025.

In summary, Apple appears to be making significant strides with its Mac mini line, introducing both a fresh design and advanced hardware. The upcoming M4 Mac mini aims to reclaim its position in a market increasingly dominated by space-saving alternatives. As Apple continues to innovate, consumers can look forward to what promises to be an intriguing addition to their gadget lineup.