Apple gives with one hand, takes away with the other.
A new leak indicates that the upcoming Mac Mini M4 will give way to USB-A ports in favor of more Type-C ports. The compact computer is expected to undergo a major redesign for the first time in 14 years, which could significantly reduce its size.
Apple could release the M4-based Mac Mini along with updated iMac and MacBook Pro models as early as October.
Earlier this year, Apple began offering its latest M4 chip exclusively in the iPad Pro (2024). However, by the end of the year, the company is expected to expand the availability of this chipset to three Mac models, including the Mac Mini, iMac and MacBook Pro. While updates to the iMac and MacBook Pro are likely to be minor, the Mac Mini M4 is expected to receive its first major redesign since 2010. This could lead to the elimination of USB-A ports, as Apple is rumored to offer more Type-C ports instead.
According to Bloomberg, the upcoming Mac Mini will no longer have USB-A ports. Instead, Apple will reportedly add more USB-C ports, bringing the total to five. Otherwise, the Cupertino firm’s most compact computer will likely retain the HDMI port, Ethernet port and headphone jack found on the current model.
In addition to an updated set of ports and an improved processor, the Mac Mini M4 will likely feature a significantly smaller chassis for the first time in 14 years. Apple could also move the two USB-C ports to the front, making them more accessible. Additionally, the latest rumors claim that the power supply will still be located inside the device, eliminating the need for users to deal with external power supplies.
Apple usually releases new Macs towards the end of the year, and this round may be no exception. The same report indicates that Apple could announce three M4 Macs sometime in October, while other models, including the affordable MacBook Air, could follow in the first half of 2025.
