Apple has initiated pre-orders for its newest Mac Mini, with shipping commencing on September 22nd. Priced from £899/$899, this updated compact computer now incorporates Apple's latest M6 and M5 Pro processors. A significant enhancement is the introduction of Neural Accelerators within the GPU cores, marking a first for the Mac Mini series, which boosts its capacity for on-device artificial intelligence tasks alongside the existing Neural Engine.
The base M6 chip features a 12-core CPU, comprising two high-performance super cores, four performance cores, and six efficiency cores. It's complemented by a 12-core GPU and a dual 16-core Neural Engine, supporting up to 170GB/s memory bandwidth and 32GB of configurable unified memory. For users requiring more power, the M5 Pro chip option, starting at £1699/$1699, offers additional memory configurations and a similar 16-core Neural Engine. This higher-tier option is designed for intensive workloads like 3D modeling, 4K video editing, and advanced AI applications. Beyond the chip choice, storage ranges from 256GB to 8TB, and unified memory can be configured from 16GB to 64GB, providing greater flexibility than previous generations. Connectivity includes two USB-C ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack at the front, with three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port at the rear, supporting up to three external displays. An upgrade to a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port is also available for faster local network file transfers.
Every new Mac Mini includes a three-month trial of Apple Creator Studio, a comprehensive software bundle featuring Pro Apps for education and additional tools. Alternatively, buyers can opt for a preinstalled bundle with licenses for Final Cut Pro, Motion, Compressor, Logic Pro, and MainStage. Apple also facilitates a trade-in program, allowing customers to reduce the cost of their new Mac Mini by exchanging an eligible device. Furthermore, an educational discount offers a £100/$100 reduction on starting prices, making this powerful new machine more accessible.
The launch of the new Mac Mini represents a significant stride in desktop computing, blending advanced performance with versatile features. Its integration of cutting-edge chips and AI capabilities reflects Apple's commitment to innovation, empowering users with tools that push creative and professional boundaries. This device not only meets the evolving demands of modern workflows but also embodies a forward-thinking approach to technology, promising efficiency and power for a wide array of applications.
