Apple has unveiled a redesigned Mac mini, resembling a larger Apple TV, during its October 29, 2024, event. Launching on November 8 for €699, this compact desktop features a portable design optimized for Apple Silicon chips. It offers improved connectivity with front USB-C ports and options for M4 or M4 Pro chips, along with significant performance upgrades. Aimed at attracting a broader audience, the Mac mini combines versatility with cutting-edge technology, breaking away from its previous design legacy.
The newly launched Mac mini resembles a larger Apple TV, but with notable enhancements.
On October 29, 2024, Amazon unveiled its features just hours before Apple’s scheduled triple-event, where the tech giant revealed an updated design for its iconic desktop computer. The redesigned Mac mini acts as a bridge between the Mac Studio and the Apple TV, making its debut at a price point of 699 euros, available from November 8. This new approach is likely to attract a broader range of users.
Introducing the Mac mini M4: Apple’s Compact Computer for Silicon Chips
Apple has officially introduced its smallest computer to date during a press release on October 29.
The latest Mac mini aims to fill a design gap that has persisted since 2010 when the previous model housed a DVD drive. Although Apple phased out disc drives in 2011, it hadn’t repurposed that space until now. The 2024 Mac mini features a design optimized for Apple’s ARM-based Silicon architecture.
Last updated in January 2023 with M2 and M2 Pro chips, the Mac mini has continually shrunk internally, maintaining the same aluminum boxy exterior. The new model is now more portable, measuring 12.7 centimeters by 12.7 centimeters, making it feasible to transport it between home and work in a large pocket or backpack. While it’s not as compact as an Apple TV (9.3 × 9.3 cm), it’s a significant improvement over its predecessor (19.7 × 19.7 cm).
This design opens up possibilities for using the Mac mini as a set-top box hidden behind a TV or as a dedicated server. Its form factor is reminiscent of the Raspberry Pi, a favorite among tech enthusiasts. However, this compact computer is specifically designed to run macOS.
Unveiling the M4 Pro Chip: Enhanced Performance for the Mac mini
To achieve its smaller footprint, Apple has made some strategic design changes while enhancing the user experience.
The USB-C ports have been relocated, with two now available on the front, similar to the Mac Studio. The rear offers either three Thunderbolt 4 or three Thunderbolt 5 ports based on the selected model (for a total of five). USB-A ports are no longer present, necessitating the use of an adapter. However, there’s still an Ethernet port, an HDMI port for easy monitor connections, and a front-facing headphone jack. The power supply configuration remains unchanged.
Equipped with a baseline of 16 GB RAM, the Mac mini can be configured with either the M4 chip or the newly announced M4 Pro chip. Performance options include a transition from a 10-core CPU to a 12-core CPU (with an additional 14-core option) and from a 10-core GPU to a 16-core GPU (with an option for a 20-core GPU). The Neural Engine, which powers AI and Apple Intelligence, stays consistent. Maximum storage options extend up to 8TB, with a minimum of 256GB available.
This new 699-euro Mac mini is likely to attract users looking for versatility, in contrast to the previous model which was more rigid in its capabilities. Anticipation is building for the upcoming MacBook Pro update, expected to feature M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips, with additional announcements slated for tomorrow.
It’s important to note that the Mac mini is sold without peripherals, and while Apple does not exclusively recommend its keyboards and mice, the company prominently features accessories from Logitech on its site.