Apple is gearing up to make a significant splash with its smallest Mac in 2024. While other Macs are expected to receive incremental upgrades, the upcoming Mac mini is rumored to undergo a major redesign and performance boost, potentially transforming it into one of Apple’s most compelling devices. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from the new Mac mini and why it might just become a must-have for tech enthusiasts.
A Sleek, Smaller Design
Apple is reportedly bidding farewell to the 2010 Mac mini design, with plans to shrink the device to roughly the size of the current Apple TV, which measures 3.7 by 3.7 by 1.2 inches (93 by 93 by 31 millimeters). This new, compact form factor is significantly smaller than the current Mac mini’s 7.75 by 7.75 by 1.41 inch (19.7 by 19.7 x 3.58 cm) frame. The move towards a smaller design has been anticipated for years, especially after teardowns of the M1 and M2 Mac mini revealed that the switch to M-series chips allowed for smaller, more efficient motherboards. This reduction in size not only minimizes desk clutter but also aligns with Apple’s commitment to reducing material use and environmental impact.
Enhanced Portability
The downsizing of the Mac mini opens up new possibilities for mobility. Traditionally, the Mac mini has been used in various portable setups, including car installations, kiosks, and DJ rigs. With its new, smaller form factor, the Mac mini could become even more versatile, catering to students, remote workers, and other users who require a compact, yet powerful, computing solution. Compared to a MacBook, the Mac mini offers a more budget-friendly option while maintaining substantial performance capabilities.
A Splash of Color
Currently, the Mac mini is available only in silver, with no sign of the previously popular space gray or any other vibrant colors. Although there’s speculation that Apple might introduce colors similar to those seen with the iMac, such as blue, pink, green, and more, the prevailing expectation is that the new Mac mini will stick with silver. Apple’s choice of color will likely be influenced by the need to differentiate the Mac mini from the black Apple TV, which uses a different material and design.
Powering Up with the M4 Chip
At the heart of the new Mac mini will be the M4 chip, marking a significant leap in performance from the current M2 models. The M4 chip, already featured in the iPad Pro, offers up to 45 percent faster performance compared to the M2. The Mac mini’s design, which allows for better heat dissipation, might even push this performance gain a bit higher. For those seeking even more power, an M4 Pro version will be available, offering up to a 45 percent increase in performance over the M2 Pro, making it ideal for intensive tasks and professional use.
Apple Intelligence and New Features
With the introduction of the M4 chip, the new Mac mini will also support Apple Intelligence—Apple’s suite of AI-driven features. This includes advanced writing tools, priority notifications, and AI-assisted summaries for Mail and Safari. For users still on Intel-based Macs, the performance improvement and new features provided by the M4 chip and Apple Intelligence will be particularly appealing.
Ports and Connectivity
The shift to a smaller design might impact the Mac mini’s port configuration. Rumors suggest the new Mac mini will feature three USB-C ports, HDMI, and a power port, but it may lack the USB-A ports found on the current model. Users who rely on gigabit Ethernet might need to find alternative solutions, as the space constraints could lead to its omission. Additionally, the new model might not include an SD card reader or front-facing USB-C port, though these features remain possible.
Pricing and Value
Historically, the Mac mini has been Apple’s most affordable Mac option. However, with the upcoming redesign and performance upgrades, there’s a chance the price could rise. The current M2 Mac mini starts at $599, with the M2 Pro model at $1,299. Given current market trends, the new Mac mini could see a price increase to around $699 for the base model and $1,399 for the M4 Pro variant. Despite this potential rise, the Mac mini is expected to remain a great value for users seeking a powerful, compact, and cost-effective Mac.
In summary, Apple’s 2024 Mac mini promises to be a game-changer with its reduced size, enhanced portability, and significant performance upgrades. Whether you’re a current Mac mini owner looking to upgrade or a new user in the market for a powerful yet affordable Mac, the upcoming Mac mini is shaping up to be a standout choice.
