Apple Inc. has introduced a smaller, redesigned Mac Mini, marking the first significant update to the device in nearly 15 years. The new Mac Mini is now just 5 inches wide and features faster M4 chips, making it less than half the size of its predecessor. The previous model, launched by former CEO Steve Jobs, was larger and more akin to an Apple TV set-top box in dimensions.

The revamped Mac Mini retains a height of 2 inches and is powered by the M4 and M4 Pro processors, which are part of a broader upgrade across the Mac lineup. This announcement is part of a series of updates from Apple, which also revealed a new iMac featuring the M4 chip earlier this week. Additionally, Apple has rolled out Apple Intelligence, its new AI platform, for use on iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

The latest Mac Mini models include two connectors on the front, similar to the higher-end Mac Studio, and offer a variety of ports on the back. The computer continues to be available in silver, consistent with previous generations. Apple highlighted the Mac Mini’s capability to handle tasks involving Apple Intelligence, although older M1 and M2 models also support this software.

Apple introduced new USB-C accessories alongside the Mac Mini, although the computer does not include a keyboard, mouse, or trackpad in the package. Weighing just 1.5 pounds, the Mac Mini comes with only a power cable. Preorders began on Tuesday, and the device will hit store shelves on November 8.

Pricing and Specifications
The new Mac Mini models replace the M2 and M2 Pro chips released in early 2023. The M4 model starts at $599, the same price as its predecessor, while an upgraded version with half a terabyte of storage is priced at $799.

The M4 Pro edition begins at $1,399, which is $100 more than the previous M2 Pro model. The base version of the M4 Pro includes 12 CPU cores, 16 GPU cores, half a terabyte of storage, and 24 gigabytes of memory. A premium model with 14 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores is available for $1,599.

The entry-level Mac Mini includes 16 gigabytes of memory, aligning it with the new base models of the iMac and the upcoming MacBook Pro. Models equipped with the M4 Pro can be configured with up to 64 gigabytes of memory, a first since Apple transitioned to its in-house processors. The storage capacity remains consistent with prior versions, maxing out at 8 terabytes.

The redesigned Mac Mini features two USB-C ports, a headphone jack on the front, and three Thunderbolt connectors on the back. The M4 versions support Thunderbolt 4, while the M4 Pro models utilize Thunderbolt 5, offering increased throughput for quicker data transfers.

Each model also comes with a power connector, an HDMI port, and an Ethernet jack on the back, with the power button relocated to the bottom of the device.