Apple is reportedly working on a revamped Mac mini, powered by the highly anticipated M4 chip. Expected to debut before the year’s end, this new version promises a dramatic size reduction, making it nearly as compact as the Apple TV box. This marks the most significant redesign since the Mac mini’s 2010 overhaul under Steve Jobs.
Two variations of the Mac mini are rumored to be in the works: one featuring the standard M4 chip and another equipped with the yet-to-be-announced M4 Pro chip. Similar to other Pro chips, the M4 Pro is expected to offer increased memory capacity and enhanced graphical performance.
Reports also suggest Apple has been testing Mac mini models with at least three USB-C ports, along with the usual power and HDMI ports. Bloomberg speculates that the new design will lead to lower manufacturing costs compared to the previous generation. Whether this translates to a more affordable price tag remains uncertain.
The Mac mini isn’t the only Mac in line for the M4 chip upgrade. According to rumors, Apple plans to equip every Mac with the M4, marking the first time the entire lineup shares the same chip generation. iMac desktops and MacBook Pros with M4 chips could launch as early as this year, while M4 MacBook Airs are projected for spring 2025. Mac Pro and Mac Studio models are expected to follow in mid-2025.
However, the timeline for M4 MacBook Pros remains unclear following ambiguous statements made during Apple’s recent quarterly earnings call. Despite these uncertainties, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg maintains that the launch is still on track for later this year.
This widespread adoption of the M4 chip aims to enhance the entire Mac lineup’s capabilities, particularly for AI-powered features. The M4 chip will enable each Mac model to seamlessly handle upcoming and future Apple Intelligence features, ensuring a smooth and powerful user experience.
