According to the latest report from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the latest version of the Mac mini using the M4 chip will be the smallest desktop computer ever made by Apple, with an improved and simplified design. This marks the first major design change for this line of computers since 2010.
Mac mini has long been known as one of Apple's smallest and most convenient desktop computers, but with the upcoming version using the M4 chip, it may reach a new level of compactness and performance.
According to Mark Gurman, the design of the Mac mini M4 will have a size equivalent to an Apple TV, with a width of approximately 3.7 inches. This makes it the smallest desktop computer ever produced by Apple, surpassing all previous versions.
The compact size of the Mac mini M4 may be half the size of the current Mac mini model using the M2 chip. Bloomberg's report also states that although the overall size of the machine may decrease, the height of the Mac mini M4 may increase, estimated to be around 1.4 inches. The machine casing will still be made of aluminum, maintaining Apple's distinctive design style.
Furthermore, the Mac mini M4 is expected not to be downgraded in terms of power. In fact, Apple is reportedly testing two different versions of the Mac mini M4, including a version using the M4 chip and a higher-end version using the M4 Pro chip. This may expand the options for users, from basic needs to more demanding tasks.
According to Gurman, Apple is testing new Mac mini versions with various types of connectors, including three or more USB-C ports, one HDMI port, and a power outlet. This suggests that Apple may be considering abandoning traditional USB-A ports in favor of a complete transition to USB-C, in line with the current trend in technology.
Another interesting point is that the Mac mini M4 may be priced lower than the current version. Currently, the Mac mini M2 is sold at a price of $599. If Apple can keep production costs lower, it is possible that the retail price of the Mac mini M4 will decrease.
In addition to the Mac mini M4, Apple may also release other devices using the M4 chip this year. According to reports, the iMac and MacBook Pro may also be equipped with the M4 chip. However, the next-generation MacBook Air may not be released until spring next year, while the upgraded versions of the Mac Pro and Mac Studio may appear in mid-2025.
The release of the Mac mini M4 will be a significant turning point for Apple, marking innovation and further solidifying the company's position in the desktop computer market. With its unprecedented compact size, but still ensuring high performance, the Mac mini M4 may be the ideal choice for those seeking a powerful desktop computer that does not occupy too much space.
This also reflects Apple's trend of developing increasingly compact and efficient technology devices, meeting the increasingly high demands of modern users.
