The upcoming M4-powered Mac mini is anticipated to receive a significant redesign, potentially reducing its size to that of an Apple TV box, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This change would make it the smallest desktop computer Apple has ever produced. Set to be released later this year, this redesign would be the first major update to the Mac mini since 2010 when it was last revamped under Steve Jobs’ leadership.
Rumors suggest that the new Mac mini could measure just 3.7 inches in width, making it less than half the size of the current M2 model. Despite its smaller footprint, the device might be taller than the existing version, which stands at 1.4 inches high. The new Mac mini is expected to retain its aluminum casing, consistent with Apple’s design aesthetics.
Performance-wise, the M4 Mac mini is believed to be on par with the iPad Pro, which also houses the M4 chipset. This model might be less costly for Apple to produce, though it’s unclear if the company will adjust the current $599 price tag of the M2 Mac mini accordingly.
Apple is also testing two versions of the new Mac mini, one with performance similar to the iPad Pro and another featuring a more robust M4 Pro chipset. Test configurations reportedly include multiple USB-C ports, a power socket, and an HDMI port, sparking speculation that Apple might eliminate USB-A ports in this redesign.
Beyond the Mac mini, Apple is expected to release other M4-powered devices later this year, including new iMacs and MacBook Pros. However, the next iteration of the MacBook Air might not be available until spring 2024, while updates for the Mac Pro and Mac Studio could be scheduled for mid-2025.