Apple appears to be preparing for an overhaul of its Mac Mini, which may see the removal of USB-A ports. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that the redesign will likely make the device size similar to that of an Apple TV, prompting alterations in its connectivity components.
Expected Features and Specifications
The forthcoming Mac Mini is projected to include Apple's M4 Pro chip. The device is likely to feature five USB-C ports—two located at the front and three at the back—along with an ethernet port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. An internal power supply is expected, a notable change from earlier models. Reports indicate the redesigned Mac Mini could start arriving at warehouses in September, with a high-end version becoming available in October.
Shifting towards USB-C is in line with broader industry trends, though it may pose challenges for those who depend on USB-A peripherals. The move reflects Apple's strategy to update its hardware interfaces. The Mac Mini, which has had a stable design since 2010, is considered overdue for an update.
Additional Information
The last update to Apple's Mac Mini lineup was in early 2023, when M2 and M2 Pro chips were introduced, ending the era of Intel-based models. The new Mac Mini is expected to offer “at least three USB-C ports,” along with a power connector and HDMI port, marking Apple's first redesign since the original unibody aluminum version appeared in June 2010.
Competitors like Intel have been producing smaller desktop computers for years, starting with their NUC desktops. These models typically use external power bricks to save space, whereas the Mac Mini traditionally includes an internal power supply. The Apple TV, featuring Apple Silicon chips and an internal power supply, showed that a smaller physical design is feasible without compromising on power connectivity.
Despite the design changes, Apple's overall strategy for the Mac Mini is likely to stay consistent. Expect a base model with the standard Apple M4 processor and an upgraded version with the new M4 Pro chip, aimed at filling the gap between the entry-level Mini and the more powerful Mac Studio. Significant reductions in ports could distinguish the new Mini from its predecessors, but it is anticipated to still offer sufficient USB-C ports for multiple external setups.
