Apple Unveils Compact Mac Mini with M4 and M4 Pro Chips

Apple has introduced a newly updated version of the Mac mini, featuring its latest M4 and M4 Pro chips. This new model comes in a compact design measuring just 5-by-5 inches, showcasing Apple’s efforts to combine power with efficiency.

The latest Mac mini offers impressive performance boosts. It offers up to 1.8 times the CPU performance and 2.2 times the GPU power compared to the original M1 model, making it a significant upgrade. For users with demanding tasks, the M4 Pro model steps up the capabilities even further, with options for up to 14 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores.

Another important feature of the new Mac mini is its enhanced connectivity. The addition of front-facing ports responds to customer feedback and improves usability. It now includes two USB-C ports on the front for quicker access, as well as a high-impedance audio jack. On the back, the M4 model gets three Thunderbolt 4 ports, while the M4 Pro boasts upgraded Thunderbolt 5 ports for faster data transfers.

In a noteworthy move towards sustainability, Apple has announced that this Mac mini is the first carbon-neutral Mac. Apple reports that it has used over 50 percent recycled materials in its production, including 100 percent recycled aluminum for the enclosure. With renewable energy used in manufacturing, the new model's carbon footprint has been reduced by more than 80 percent.

Additionally, this Mac mini supports Apple Intelligence compatibility, a feature embedded within macOS Sequoia. This includes useful tools like an enhanced version of Siri, system-wide Writing Tools, and a new Image Playground aimed at increasing productivity through AI functionalities, although these features are currently limited mainly to users in the U.S.

Pricing for the updated Mac mini begins at $599 for the M4 model and $1,399 for the M4 Pro model. Pre-orders are already available, with devices set to ship starting from November 8.

Apple, MacMini, Technology, Performance, Sustainability