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| (Image credit: Future) |
The Mac mini may soon get a redesign, even though it hasn't had one in more than ten years. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple intends to remove the USB-A connectors and introduce front-facing connections for the first time in its next M4-powered Mac mini.
Gurman said last month that the next Mac mini, which is expected to be on shop shelves by the end of 2024, is expected to be the smallest and most powerful model to date. However, it was unclear how precisely Apple was reducing the size of the already-compact portable desktop.
He provided an explanation of Apple's intention to reduce the size of the Mac mini by eliminating its two USB-A ports in this week's Power On newsletter. Although it is not shocking considering that Apple removed USB-A ports from the majority of its other machines, it is a little inconvenient because so many desktop accessories depend on it. For example, since my two preferred wireless mice require a USB-A dongle, I'll have to go through my catch-all tech drawer for any USB-C adapters.
If you go for the more expensive model that is powered by the M4 Pro, you won't be without ports, so don't worry. According to Gurman, Apple intends to pack a staggering five USB-C ports inside the M4 Pro Mac mini: two on the front and three on the rear, matching the design of the Mac Studio.
In response to concerns raised by many, he also mentioned that this device will still include internal power supply and connections for Ethernet, HDMI, and 3.5mm audio. It is unclear if the entry-level Mac mini will likewise include five USB-C ports, because Apple has often included fewer ports on this model than on the more expensive models.
M4 Mac Mini: What to Expect in Apple's Next Update
Gurman reports that early September is when suppliers in China plan to start selling the new Mac mini models equipped with the M4 processor; the M4 Pro version won't start shipping until October. Considering that Apple intends to introduce the M4 MacBook Pro and iMac in the upcoming months, it is possible that this will be the first year where all of Apple's Macs utilize the same chip version.
It's difficult to predict, though, how much the Mac mini's reported makeover will really change. For a price that doesn't break the bank, the Mac mini is very tiny, powerful, and competent, which is why it now tops our list of the finest mini PCs available. It might not be worth the upgrading if the smaller form factor and new chip come with a higher price tag.