The Mac mini is already the smallest Mac available, although it is true that the current design is identical to the model introduced in 2010. Yes, fourteen years have passed, and technology has advanced significantly. There are no longer Intel processors inside Macs; instead, we have chips developed by Apple. Recently, we learned that Apple plans to introduce the M4 chip to the Mac line before the year ends. Now, we have more details about one specific model: the Mac mini.
The Mac mini with M4 chip will be as small as the Apple TV
The leading leaker, Mark Gurman, has received new information about Apple’s release schedule for this fall. Beyond the arrival of the iPhone 16 in September, it is expected that autumn will be marked by the arrival of the M4 chip in various Mac models. After the launch of the M4 chip in the iPad Pro, the question now is when this Apple processor will come to Macs.
In a previous report, we already knew the incorporation date of the M4 chip for the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and iMac. Now, the uncertainties regarding the Mac mini have been resolved. Mark Gurman confirms that Apple is developing a version of the Mac mini with an M4 chip, which will be the smallest Mac to date with a significant design change. This will be the first major redesign since Steve Jobs presented the model in 2010.
According to his sources, the size of the Mac mini will be similar to that of the current Apple TV, reducing its volume by approximately 50%. It would literally fit in a pants pocket, undoubtedly paying homage to Steve Jobs and the iPod. From carrying 1,000 songs in your pocket to having the full power of Apple Intelligence in it.
Size difference between the current Apple TV and Mac mini
Based on the models Apple is testing, the new Mac mini will still be made of aluminum and will feature at least three USB-C ports and one HDMI connector. The design team describes it as “an iPad Pro in a small box that can only be achieved by the power and efficiency of Apple’s chips.”
All Mac models will have the M4 chip to power AI
While Apple Intelligence is compatible with Macs featuring an M1 chip, it would be a priority for Apple to bring the M4 chip to all its Mac models in the coming months. The updates would begin at the end of this year with the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini. Then, it would continue in the spring with the MacBook Air and conclude in the summer with the Mac Pro and Mac Studio. This would mark the first time that the entire Mac family has the same processors, each with its corresponding variants of M4, M4 Pro, M4 Max, etc.
There are two versions of the new Mac mini in development: a base configuration with the M4 chip (codenamed J773) and another with the M4 Pro chip. Mark Gurman believes that the price will remain the same as it is now,starting at $599. However, there is a slight chance that the price might decrease to encourage sales in the Mac segment.
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Exciting Features of the Upcoming Mac Mini with M4 Chip
The Mac mini continues to be the smallest Mac ever created, but the design is set for a major overhaul after almost 14 years. Users can expect the latest technology as Apple transitions from Intel processors to its own chips, starting with the anticipated M4 chip soon. This article explores the anticipated updates and features of the new Mac mini.
The Mac mini with M4 chip: A Game Changer
According to renowned analyst Mark Gurman, Apple is all set to reveal a new version of the Mac mini featuring the M4 chip. This model will be significantly smaller, resembling the size of the current Apple TV. This size reduction represents a decrease of approximately 50%, making the Mac mini compact enough to fit into a pocket. This change is reminiscent of Steve Jobs’ original vision for portability and functionality in technology.
Size difference between the current Apple TV and Mac mini
Innovative Design and Features
Despite its smaller size, the new Mac mini will maintain its signature aluminum construction. The device is expected to come with at least three USB-C ports and an HDMI connector, solidifying its position as a versatile desktop computer. Apple’s design team is pitching it as “an iPad Pro in a small box,” highlighting the power and efficiency that the new M4 chips will offer.
Major Design Changes Since 2010
The design refresh is not just about size; this will be the first notable change to the Mac mini since 2010. The compact nature combined with significant computing power will allow users to enjoy enhanced performance without sacrificing space or aesthetic appeal.
AI Capabilities with the M4 Chip
With the introduction of the M4 chip, all Mac models will soon be equipped to enhance their AI capabilities. Although current Macs with M1 chips can utilize Apple Intelligence, the M4 chip is expected to revolutionize this feature across the entire Mac lineup.
Planned Rollout of New Models
According to reports, Apple’s timeline for releasing the M4 chip includes:
- **Late 2023:** MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini
- **Spring 2024:** MacBook Air
- **Summer 2024:** Mac Pro and Mac Studio
This rollout will mark a historic moment as it will be the first time the entire Mac family runs on the same chip architecture, albeit in various configurations such as M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max.
Pricing and Availability
Mark Gurman’s insights suggest that Apple is set to keep the starting price of the new Mac mini at its current level, beginning at $599. However, there is speculation that Apple might lower the price to boost sales and compete more effectively in the desktop market.
Conclusion
With the upcoming release of the Mac mini featuring the M4 chip, users can look forward to an efficient, powerful, and ultra-compact desktop experience. From enhanced AI capabilities to a refreshing design, Apple is set to redefine what users expect from their desktop computing solutions.
Call to Action
Stay tuned for more updates on the M4 chip and the new Apple TV Pro scheduled for release soon!