Apple is known for its sleek designs and innovative technology, and it seems like the tech giant is planning another big change.
According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple might soon release a new version of the Mac Mini, but there are rumors that this redesign will come with some trade-offs.
The new model, expected to be called the M4 Mac Mini, might ditch the familiar USB-A ports in favor of a smaller and more compact design.
A Smaller, More Compact Design
The current Mac Mini design has remained mostly unchanged for years, with the 2012 and 2023 models looking almost identical.
The last major design overhaul for the Mac Mini was about 15 years ago. However, if the rumors are to be believed, the M4 Mac Mini will introduce a radical shift in design philosophy.
Gurman suggests that the new Mac Mini will be roughly the size of an Apple TV, which means it will be significantly smaller than the current model.
For those who might not be familiar with the size of an Apple TV, it measures approximately 93 x 93 x 31 mm (3.66 x 3.66 x 1.2 inches).
Compare that to the dimensions of the M2 Mac Mini, which are 197 x 197 x 35.8 mm (7.75 x 7.75 x 1.41 inches), and it’s clear that the new model could be almost half the size of its predecessor.
This compact design could make the M4 Mac Mini an attractive option for those who value space-saving devices, especially in smaller workspaces or for those who want a powerful desktop computer that doesn’t take up much room.
No More USB-A Ports
One of the significant changes that the new design might bring is the removal of USB-A ports. USB-A has been a standard port for many years, used for connecting everything from keyboards and mice to external drives and other peripherals.
However, with the shift towards a smaller form factor, it appears that Apple is ready to fully embrace the future by replacing these ports with USB-C.
The move to USB-C is not entirely unexpected. Many of the latest devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets, have already made the switch to USB-C because of its versatility and ability to transfer data and power more efficiently.
The new Mac Mini is rumored to come with five USB-C ports, along with an Ethernet port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack.
This port selection should cater to most modern users’ needs, and for those who still rely on USB-A peripherals, USB-C adapters and hubs are widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Internal Power Supply
Another interesting rumor about the upcoming M4 Mac Mini is that it will feature an internal power supply, unlike some of Apple’s other devices, which require an external power brick.
This change could make the Mac Mini even more appealing to users looking for a clean and minimalistic setup, as there will be fewer cables and clutter.
Release Date Speculations
With Apple’s September 9 ‘It’s Glowtime’ event on the horizon, many were hoping to see the new Mac Mini unveiled. However, according to Gurman, neither the M4 nor the M4 Pro Mac Mini will be announced at this event.
Instead, they are expected to be revealed at a separate event at least a month later, likely in October. This means fans will have to wait a little longer to get official confirmation and details about these new devices.
A Look Towards the Future
While some long-time Apple users may feel a sense of nostalgia for the USB-A port, it is clear that the tech world is moving forward. The switch to a more compact, USB-C-centric design aligns with the direction many manufacturers are heading.
USB-C offers faster data transfer speeds and more versatility, making it a logical choice for a modern device like the Mac Mini.
Moreover, considering the rumours that the Mac Mini M4 Pro will be the most premium version of the Mini yet, there is a lot of anticipation surrounding its performance capabilities and additional features.
The smaller size, combined with powerful internals, could make the Mac Mini a compelling choice for both casual users and professionals.
The upcoming Mac Mini redesign seems to promise a mix of excitement and compromise. A smaller, more modern design that aligns with the future of technology sounds appealing, especially for those who want a minimalistic setup.
However, the removal of USB-A ports might be a dealbreaker for some who still use older peripherals.
