Apple is gearing up to launch a redesigned Mac mini, marking its first significant design overhaul in over a decade. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the upcoming M4-powered Mac mini will eliminate USB-A ports, a move that aligns with Apple’s trend of phasing out this legacy port across its devices. Instead, the new Mac mini will feature an array of USB-C ports, with the M4 Pro variant boasting five USB-C ports—three on the back and, for the first time, two on the front, similar to the Mac Studio.
This port configuration will be accompanied by Ethernet, HDMI, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, with the power supply remaining internal.
Gurman highlights that the Mac mini with the M4 chip is expected to ship from suppliers in China in early September, while the M4 Pro version will follow in October. This staggered release schedule suggests that Apple is preparing for a significant refresh of its Mac lineup, with the M4 chip being integrated across various models, including the MacBook Pro and iMac.
The redesigned Mac mini is expected to be smaller, potentially approaching the size of an Apple TV box but slightly taller than the current model. This compact form factor, combined with the powerful M4 and M4 Pro chips, positions the Mac mini as a top contender in the mini PC market. However, the loss of USB-A ports may be a drawback for users with older accessories, though the inclusion of multiple USB-C ports offers a future-proof solution for modern peripherals.
The upcoming Mac mini is likely to attract attention for its blend of power and portability, with the M4 Pro variant offering enhanced performance for users who require more robust computing capabilities. While the removal of USB-A ports may require some adjustments, the overall redesign and port enhancements signal Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what its smallest desktop can achieve.
(via Bloomberg)
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