Apple has unveiled a new Mac Mini that is half the size of its predecessor, making it the smallest computer from the tech giant. The new Mac measures just five by five inches and features Apple’s latest M4 chip, along with the newly announced M4 Pro.
According to John Ternus, Apple’s hardware chief, the new Mac Mini offers impressive performance in a compact design thanks to the efficiency of Apple silicon and a new thermal architecture. Additionally, Apple touts that this is its first carbon-neutral computer, achieved through an 80% reduction in emissions during manufacturing, shipping, and customer use.
Originally introduced in 2005 as a way to entice PC users with an Apple alternative, the Mac Mini has undergone several size reductions over the years. With the transition to Apple’s custom processors, starting with the M1 in 2020 and now the M4, the Mac Mini continues to evolve.
The new Mac Mini, like other Apple Silicon Macs, can run Apple Intelligence tools. A recent MacOS update introduced AI features such as writing tools for text revision, with more enhancements expected in the coming months.
Apple targets a diverse user base for the Mac Mini, from students to creative professionals and small business owners. The compact computer has also found popularity in niche applications like home theaters and server farms.