Apple’s smallest desktop M4 Mac mini might launch this week

Last week, Apple hinted that it is planning to launch a number of new arrivals this week. This includes the first wave of Apple Intelligence with iOS 18.1 and the M4 Mac line-up. But it is still just hints to speculate on. Rumours suggest Apple will unveil multiple M4-powered Macs, including an entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro, higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. Additionally, an all-new Mac Mini is expected in M4 and M4 Pro variants, alongside an upgraded iMac with an M4 processor. The upcoming Mac Mini is Apple’s smallest ever desktop, as per the claims. Previously, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman stated that while this will be the smallest desktop in the Apple-verse, it will also bring a design change which hasn’t been seen since 2010.
Apple’s upcoming M4 Mac mini is anticipated to be one of the most compact and efficient designs yet. The device is set to feature Apple’s M4 chip, expected to deliver a significant speed boost over previous generations with a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and an enhanced 16-core Neural Engine, ideal for AI-heavy tasks. This will be particularly useful for applications involving machine learning and creative workloads.
The M4 Mac mini is also slated for a major physical redesign, reducing its footprint to almost half of the current model, making it roughly comparable in size to an Apple TV. It may, however, be slightly taller than the previous Mac mini model to accommodate internal components. Connectivity will focus on USB-C, as the traditional USB-A ports are expected to be removed, leaving five USB-C ports, an HDMI output, Ethernet, and a headphone jack. It might carry an aluminium shell. The report claims that the new Mac mini is essentially an iPad Pro in a small box. This approach takes advantage of the lower power requirements of the company’s in-house silicon.
Another notable update is the integration of macOS 15, known as “Sequoia,” which will bring enhanced AI features, new Siri capabilities, and improved performance across the board, aligning with the Mac mini’s advanced Neural Engine.
Pricing is likely to start around $599, in line with the current M2 Mac mini, and Apple may announce the M4 Mac mini as early as the end of October 2024, with shipping possibly beginning in November.
This release could position the M4 Mac mini as an appealing choice for both casual and professional users seeking powerful desktop computing in a smaller, more energy-efficient form factor.