Apple Leak Hints at Redesigned Mac Mini with Five USB-C Ports Ahead of October Event

Apple’s product release calendar is becoming more predictable, with whispers of upcoming hardware updates floating around ahead of the next big event. While this week’s excitement is focused on the latest iPhones and Apple Watches, the tech world is already buzzing about what’s next: a potential October event where Apple is rumored to unveil refreshed Macs, including a highly anticipated redesign of the Mac mini.

A Familiar Release Pattern

This October event fits into Apple’s established rhythm. Just like last year, when Apple introduced new iPhones in September, followed by the launch of the first wave of M3-powered Macs near Halloween, the same seems to be happening in 2024. While the iPhone and Apple Watch take center stage now, Apple’s strategy often includes staggering releases to keep interest high throughout the year.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is expected to use this October showcase to unveil new MacBook Pro models and a refreshed 24-inch iMac, both powered by the latest M4 processors. However, the spotlight is likely to fall on an updated Mac mini that could shake up the compact desktop market in a big way.

A Sleek Redesign for the Mac Mini

The most intriguing part of this potential announcement is the redesigned Mac mini, a product that hasn’t seen a significant external update since 2010. According to the latest leaks, the new Mac mini may be closer in size to an Apple TV box, though it will retain its internal power supply to avoid the hassle of an external power brick.

Notably, the upcoming model is expected to offer five USB-C ports, with some even positioned on the front of the device—a nod to the convenient design of the Mac Studio. This setup will likely appeal to power users who value flexibility in their peripherals. The discovery of a reference to an “Apple silicon Mac mini (5 ports)” in a recent Apple software update lends credibility to these rumors.

M4 and M4 Pro Variants: More Power, More Ports?

The “five port” description also suggests that there could be multiple configurations of the new Mac mini, echoing Apple’s strategy with previous MacBook Pro models, which featured both two- and four-port versions. The current M2 Mac mini lineup already reflects a similar approach, where the more powerful M2 Pro models offer enhanced I/O capabilities. If the rumors are correct, we could see both an M4-powered Mac mini and a beefed-up M4 Pro version, with the latter boasting additional ports for even greater versatility.

What Else to Expect at the October Event

Mac enthusiasts aren’t the only ones with something to look forward to in October. Apple is also rumored to be working on new, more affordable iPads that could be revealed during the event. Both the $349 iPad 10 and the iPad mini have gone over a year without hardware updates, making them prime candidates for a refresh. Though we might not see major design changes, these devices are likely to be outfitted with newer chips, bringing them up to speed with Apple’s more powerful tablets.

Looking Further Ahead

While October may introduce the first M4 Macs, the rollout won’t stop there. Gurman suggests that additional Mac models, including the Mac Studio, Mac Pro, and MacBook Air, will receive M4-series updates in 2025. The Mac Studio and Mac Pro, in particular, are long overdue for new chips, still running on the M2 series introduced earlier.

Apple’s product strategy, with its staggered releases, keeps fans eagerly awaiting what’s next. If the rumors hold true, the October event could be packed with announcements that will appeal to professionals, power users, and everyday consumers alike. Between the redesigned Mac mini with its array of USB-C ports and the refreshed iPads, Apple is poised to make waves once again in the tech world. Whether you’re after more processing power or simply more ports, October’s announcements will likely bring something exciting to the table.