Apple Refreshes, Reforms Mac mini with M4 and AI

Nigel Dixon-Fyle

Apple’s Mac mini receives a significant refresh, pairing the new M4 chip with a redesigned body that borrows from the sleek, compact look of the Apple TV and Mac Studio. With upgrades to performance, storage, and connectivity, this is the Mac Mini’s most comprehensive update in over a decade. The M4 version marks Apple’s latest push to expand the appeal of its entry-level desktop while delivering top-notch performance at an accessible price point.

What’s Happening & Why This Matters

credit: Apple

Apple’s latest Mac mini takes on a new design, featuring a smaller, box-like appearance with dimensions closer to an Apple TV. It measures 5 inches by 5 inches and stands at 2 inches tall, making it more compact than previous models. This updated look accommodates additional front-facing ports, including two USB-C 3.1 ports and an audio jack, bringing improved convenience for users connecting accessories .

On the back, the Mac mini now sports three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI slot, and an Ethernet jack, giving users a range of connection options. However, Apple has phased out the USB-A ports, a change that might impact users who rely on older peripherals. The Thunderbolt 4 connections can support up to three 6K displays, positioning the Mac mini as a versatile hub for professional setups.

At the heart of the new Mac mini is Apple’s 3-nanometer M4 chip, which includes an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, with an optional 10-core configuration. The M4 Pro, a higher-tier option, boasts a 14-core CPU and up to a 20-core GPU, further boosting processing speed. Both chips include a 16-core Neural Engine, optimized for AI tasks and compatible with Apple’s new Apple Intelligence suite, which debuts in macOS Sequoia 15.1. Apple claims the neural engine enhancement delivers quicker processing for tasks like image editing and AI-driven applications.

Sustainability, Performance Gains, Graphics and Memory Boosts

Apple further claims that the M4 chip offers a 1.8 times faster CPU performance and a 2.2 times GPU speed boost compared to the M1. In real-world applications, such as Affinity Photo, the M4 is reportedly 1.6 times faster than the previous M2 model. The M4 Pro’s GPU also doubles its ray-tracing capabilities, enhancing graphics quality in 3D games and rendering software. This performance boost positions the Mac mini as a formidable choice for creators and developers who need robust computing power without breaking the bank.

Credit: Apple

Apple has crafted the Mac mini to be its first carbon-neutral Mac, reducing aluminum use and shifting to more fiber-based packaging. The entry-level model now comes with 16GB of RAM, a step up from the previous 8GB, providing better performance at the same starting price of $599. This makes the Mac mini an attractive option for budget-conscious users seeking solid memory capacity right out of the box .

TF Summary: What’s Next

Apple’s refreshed Mac mini combines powerful M4 chips, a compact modernized design, and enhanced connectivity, at an accessible price. With more configurations and AI capabilities, the new Mac mini is primed for creative professionals, casual users, and those interested in efficient, sustainable form factor. As As Apple continues to week of computing updates, the M4 Mac mini is a strong member in the lineup.

— Text-to-Speech (TTS) provided by gspeech

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By Nigel Dixon-Fyle "Automotive Enthusiast"
Background:
Nigel Dixon-Fyle is an Editor-at-Large for TechFyle. His background in engineering, telecommunications, consulting and product development inspired him to launch TechFyle (TF). Nigel implemented technologies that support business practices across a variety of industries and verticals. He enjoys the convergence of technology and anything – autos, phones, computers, or day-to-day services. However, Nigel also recognizes not everything is good in absolutes. Technology has its pros and cons. TF supports this exploration and nuance.
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