Mac mini refresh with ‘M1X’ chip will be redesigned with more Thunderbolt ports

Recent reports have suggested that Apple has some big plans for its Mac lineup, and that appears to include a Mac mini refresh. Aside from a more powerful Apple Silicon, the desktop computer is also reportedly getting some design changes.

Well-known Apple leaker Jon Prosser said in the latest Front Page Tech video that he received schematics of the 2021 Mac mini, which he then used as the basis for the renders he presented. The images created by Ian Zelbo suggest that Apple’s next desktop computer will have a more compact design.

However, the slightly thinner form factor does not mean Apple fans are losing ports. The same source reported that the next Mac mini is actually getting two additional Thunderbolt ports compared to the current model’s two. The magnetic power port will also be simplified with just a round connector, while there will still be two USB-A ports.

The next Mac mini will still have a dedicated Ethernet port, but the renders do not show a 3.5mm headphone jack. Considering Apple’s previous design decisions, it would not be surprising if the upcoming desktop computer becomes another product that compels customers to switch to wireless headphones.

Luckily, Apple is not removing the HDMI port as it did in the past on MacBook Pro. But media professionals might be disappointed to know that the 2021 Mac mini renders are not showing an SD card slot.

At the bottom of the upcoming Mac mini, the round rubber that prevents the device from slipping is also reportedly being changed to two long rubber strips. The cooling grille that is currently placed alongside the ports is also said to be moving to the bottom of the desktop computer.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that the Mac mini refresh will be powered with the same SoC planned for the next MacBook Pro refresh. The follow-up Apple Silicon often referred to as M1X, will reportedly have 10 processing cores (8 for performance and 2 for energy efficiency).

However, both reports did not mention anything about the next Mac mini’s release date. Bloomberg even floated the possibility that Apple might decide to “delay or cancel” its next desktop computer.

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