# Apple’s Anticipated M4 Mac Mini: What We’ve Learned So Far
Earlier this month, **Mark Gurman** from *Bloomberg* shared that Apple is preparing to launch a fresh range of Macs equipped with the **M4 chip** before the year concludes. Among these new offerings, the **Mac mini** is projected to undergo a substantial overhaul, featuring a “striking new design.” Although Apple has yet to officially verify these specifics, a recent leak from within Apple’s own software has bolstered the validity of these assertions.
## The Leak: A Glimpse into the Future
As noted by **Aaron Perris**, a writer for *MacRumors*, a snippet of code within Apple’s software mentions a **Mac mini** with **five USB-C ports**. This perfectly coincides with Gurman’s previous report, which indicated that the **M4 Pro variant** of the Mac mini would include **three USB-C ports at the back and two at the front**, akin to the **Mac Studio**. This signifies a substantial enhancement from existing Mac mini models, which come with a lesser number of USB-C ports.
The combination of this leak and Gurman’s track record for reliable forecasts has sparked enthusiasm among Apple fans. It increasingly appears that Apple is set to reveal a revamped Mac mini with more robust internals and improved connectivity features.
## A Fresh Look for the Mac Mini
One of the most thrilling elements of the forthcoming Mac mini is its speculated **new look**. While the Mac mini has experienced several internal enhancements throughout the years, its exterior design has remained largely unchanged since 2010. Nevertheless, Gurman has indicated that the **2024 Mac mini** will feature a **reduced size**, more akin to the compact design of the **Apple TV**.
This would represent a notable shift from the current Mac mini aesthetic, which has been lauded for its simplicity but criticized for lacking innovation. A smaller, more refined Mac mini could attract users seeking a powerful desktop solution that occupies minimal space on their work surfaces.
## M4 Chip: Energizing the Future
The upcoming Mac mini is expected to harness Apple’s **M4 chip**, which is anticipated to be the next evolution of Apple’s custom silicon. The M4 chip is likely to deliver enhanced performance and efficiency compared to the **M2 chip** utilized in the current Mac mini models.
Interestingly, reports suggest that the **M4 Mac mini** will be “essentially an **iPad Pro** in a compact form.” Apple’s latest iPad Pro versions are the first devices to incorporate the M4 chip, and their performance metrics should provide insight into what we can anticipate from the new Mac mini. If the M4 chip meets expectations, the new Mac mini could excel in tasks like video editing, programming, and gaming.
## Pricing: Will It Be Pricier?
One of the main uncertainties surrounding the new Mac mini is its price. The existing **M2 Mac mini** starts at **$599**, positioning it as one of the most budget-friendly options to enter the Apple ecosystem. However, with the introduction of the M4 chip and a revamped chassis, it remains uncertain if Apple will keep this pricing or introduce a higher entry point.
Apple tends to maintain steady prices across product updates, but given the potential for notable enhancements in both design and performance, it may not be surprising if the new Mac mini carries a slightly elevated price tag.
## When Can We Anticipate the New Mac Mini?
The positive news is that we probably won’t have to endure a long wait to see the new Mac mini in person. Reports indicate that Apple is likely to hold an event in **October** to announce new iPads and **M4 Macs**, including the redesigned Mac mini. This occasion will provide us with a closer examination of Apple’s desktop strategy and might also give additional details about the pricing and availability of the new Mac mini.
## Conclusion
The impending **M4 Mac mini** is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling enhancements to Apple’s desktop offerings in years. With a **striking new design**, **additional USB-C ports**, and the robust **M4 chip**, the new Mac mini has the potential to revolutionize the experience for users seeking a compact yet powerful desktop computer.
As we await Apple’s official communication, the leaks and reports have already supplied us with much to anticipate. Whether you are a creative professional, a developer, or simply someone who appreciates Apple products, the new Mac mini is certainly a device to watch closely.
Stay tuned for further updates as we near Apple’s rumored October event, where we’re expected to get our first official glimpse at the **M4 Mac mini** and other exciting new offerings from Cupertino.
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**Sources:**
– *Bloomberg* via Mark Gurman
– *MacRumors* via Aaron Perris
