# Apple’s Upcoming Mac Mini: A Detailed Look at the M4 Transition
Apple is preparing to debut the next iteration of its Mac mini, making the switch to the new M4 chips next month. This revision promises notable transformations, including a total redesign, two variants of the M4 chip, and improved connectivity options. Here’s everything we’re aware of regarding the forthcoming Mac mini.
## New Mac Mini Design
Since its launch in 2005, the Mac mini has undergone just one significant redesign in 2010. This redesign introduced a unibody aluminum case and removed the optical drive, establishing a design that has largely persisted for over a decade. However, the new Mac mini will change this pattern with a novel design that is said to significantly decrease its dimensions.
As reported by **Bloomberg**, the upcoming Mac mini will be “considerably smaller than its predecessor,” mirroring the compact form factor of the Apple TV. To illustrate, the current measurements of the Apple TV 4K are:
– **Height**: 1.2 inches (31 mm)
– **Width**: 3.66 inches (93 mm)
– **Depth**: 3.66 inches (93 mm)
In comparison, the existing Mac mini dimensions are:
– **Height**: 1.41 inches (3.58 cm)
– **Width**: 7.75 inches (19.70 cm)
– **Depth**: 7.75 inches (19.70 cm)
The new M4 Mac mini is expected to occupy about half the space of the current model, although it might be marginally taller. This shrinkage is especially remarkable for a gadget renowned for its compactness.
## Performance Enhancements
The upcoming Mac mini will come with two versions of the M4 chip: the standard M4 and the M4 Pro. This parallels the present lineup, which features the Mac mini with either the M2 chip or M2 Pro.
The base M4 chip is anticipated to be similar to that in the latest iPad Pro, while the M4 Pro variant is likely to offer upgraded configurations, including greater unified memory and enhanced graphics capabilities. Presently, details about the maximum RAM for these new versions are still awaited; the current M2 Mac mini supports a maximum of 16GB RAM, while the M2 Pro version accommodates up to 32GB.
## Connectivity Options
The current M2 Mac mini boasts a solid range of connectivity options, which include:
– Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
– Two USB-A ports (up to 5Gb/s)
– HDMI port
– Gigabit Ethernet port (configurable to 10Gb Ethernet)
– 3.5 mm headphone jack
The M2 Pro model adds an extra two Thunderbolt 4 ports, bringing the total to four.
Reports suggest that the revamped M4 Mac mini will completely remove USB-A ports. At least one model is expected to feature five USB-C ports—three at the rear and two at the front for convenient access. This modification aligns with a wider industry shift towards USB-C as the primary connectivity standard.
Alongside the USB-C ports, the new Mac mini will keep an HDMI port, a headphone jack, and Ethernet capabilities, complete with an internal power supply.
## Release Date Expectations
Apple is expected to host an event in October to reveal the new M4 Mac mini alongside other products. Following this event, shipping is projected to begin in November, indicating that the announcement will likely take place towards the end of October.
## Conclusion
The forthcoming redesign of the Mac mini signifies a major advancement in Apple’s desktop offerings. With a more compact design, boosted performance through the M4 chip options, and upgraded connectivity features, the new Mac mini is set to appeal to a diverse array of users, from casual consumers to professionals in need of robust computing solutions.
As we near the launch date, anticipation grows around the capabilities of the new Mac mini. Are you contemplating an upgrade? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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