Forget M3 Mac mini: Apple is readying one with M4 chip and AI capabilities

Apple is reportedly preparing for a significant overhaul of its Mac lineup, with plans to introduce a new M4 chipset across its range of computers. This move aims to integrate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into the company's devices. According to Bloomberg's seasoned analyst Mark Gurman, Apple may bypass the expected launch of an M3-powered Mac mini and instead debut an updated version with the next-generation M4 chipset by late 2024.

Apple may be prioritizing the transition to the M4 generation

In Gurman's recent Power On newsletter, he emphasized that Apple seems to be prioritizing the transition to the M4 generation, potentially overlooking any M3 versions. This observation aligns with his earlier predictions that Apple would release M4 and M4 Pro-powered Mac mini models between late 2024 and early 2025. The potential launch of an M4 Mac mini by the end of 2024 strengthens the likelihood of the M4 generation taking precedence, as suggested by Gurman.

Apple's journey with the M3 chipset began last year

Despite initial suggestions by Gurman last year that an M3-powered Mac mini could hit the market in 2024, recent advancements with the M3 chip in MacBook Pro and iMac releases have sparked speculation about a direct transition to the M4 architecture. Apple's journey with the M3 chipset began with the launch of 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro variants and a 24-inch iMac last October. The company later expanded its M3 lineup with updated MacBook Air models earlier this year.