Mac Mini 2022: Release date, Pricing, Expectations, and more – XDA Developers
Apple revealed its own M1 system-on-chip (SoC) last year. It was first included in a custom-built Mac Mini, sold exclusively to select developers. This was for testing reasons and optimizing macOS apps to run on M1 Macs natively. The Cupertino tech giant announced the first commer…….
Apple revealed its own M1 system-on-chip (SoC) last year. It was first included in a custom-built Mac Mini, sold exclusively to select developers. This was for testing reasons and optimizing macOS apps to run on M1 Macs natively. The Cupertino tech giant announced the first commercial M1 Macs during the November 2020 Mac event — MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini. The all-new colorful M1 iMac followed them last Spring. And finally, we got redesigned MacBook Pro models that feature upgraded M1 Pro and Max chips earlier this month. For a while, though, rumors have been surfacing online regarding a redesigned Mac Mini. Here’s everything we know about this upcoming compact Apple computer.
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Mac Mini: Release date
Rumors initially suggested that Apple would release the upcoming Mac Mini in late 2021, during its Fall Mac event. However, we were disappointed by the “Unleashed” event’s end, when that didn’t happen. Based on Apple’s history, if we had to assume a release date, it would be in Spring or Fall 2022. Apple refreshed the iMac last Spring and the MacBook Pro this Fall. So the Mini’s turn could be either in half or a full year.
If we had to speculate, we would go for Spring 2022 because earlier rumors pointed at a late 2021 release. This suggests that the redesigned Mini is almost ready for the big reveal. However, rumors and leaks can always be inaccurate. So we will never know for sure, until the actual event occurs.
Mac Mini: Pricing
Apple currently sells the Mini in three different configurations. The base M1 model costs $699, while an upgraded M1 variant costs $899. However, the Apple Store still lists an Intel model for $1099. There are no solid rumors regarding the pricing of the upcoming Mac Mini 2022, but it’s safe to assume Apple will keep it in the same price range. The Mac Mini is the most affordable in the Mac lineup, so increasing its price significantly might be a deal breaker for customers on a limited budget.
There’s a possibility that the tech overlord will release redesigned M1 Pro and/or M1 Max variants for a higher price tag. However, it might keep the existent M1 Mac Mini around for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on a computer. This would be a similar case to that of the new M1 Pro/Max MacBook Pro models. They start at a whopping $1999, but Apple still sells last year’s M1 model starting at $1299. Getting rid of budget-friendly models would only hurt their sales.</…….
