Revamped Mac Mini: Apple’s Next Big Move?

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The Mac mini has long been Apple’s most affordable and versatile desktop computer, offering the full Mac experience in a compact design. However, despite being equipped with the latest Apple Silicon chip, the Mac mini has not seen significant updates for a while. Excitingly, rumors suggest that this may soon change, with Apple planning a major redesign for the Mac mini.

A Brief History of the Mac Mini
Introduced in 2005, the Mac mini quickly became a popular entry-level option for those looking to own a Mac without breaking the bank. It provided the benefits of Apple hardware and macOS in an affordable package. After a redesign in 2010, the Mac mini’s appearance has remained mostly unchanged, apart from the removal of the optical drive in 2011.

With Apple’s 2020 transition from Intel processors to its own Apple Silicon chips, the company hinted at the potential for new form factors in its Mac lineup. While models like the iMac and MacBook Air received design overhauls, the Mac mini retained its familiar shape, even with the introduction of the M2 chip.

Despite its enduring appeal, the current Mac mini design includes a lot of empty space, as revealed by various teardowns. This suggests that it’s time for Apple to reimagine the Mac mini, leveraging modern technologies and a more efficient design.

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Anticipated Redesign: Smaller and Sleeker

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing a significant update for the Mac mini, with plans to make the device even smaller. This new design is rumored to resemble an Apple TV, offering a more modern aesthetic and greater convenience for users. A compact Mac mini would be particularly advantageous for those using multiple units in server racks, allowing for more efficient use of space.

While some may worry about potential compromises with a smaller design, current rumors indicate that Apple will retain most of the existing ports, including USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and a headphone jack. The main change will be the removal of older USB-A ports, which will be replaced by keeping the power supply inside the unit. This trade-off is unlikely to concern most users, given the widespread adoption of USB-C.

Gurman also notes that the redesigned Mac mini will be cheaper to manufacture, which could mean a lower entry price. Imagine a new Mac mini with an M4 chip starting at just $600 – this would make it an attractive choice for many first-time Mac buyers.

When Can We Expect the New Mac Mini?

While Apple’s upcoming event next Monday will focus on the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch Series 10, it is expected that new Mac announcements will follow in October. With any luck, the redesigned Mac mini will be among the new products unveiled.