Kasper JadeBringing its least expensive system up to par with features in the rest of its lineup, Apple is due to revamp the Mac mini with multiple video outputs, AppleInsider has learned.
The reason for the addition is unclear, though it would potentially give the budget Mac dual display support that it has lacked since it was introduced as a PowerPC G4 model in 2005. All other current Macs either already include a built-in display and only need one video output or else use full-size video cards, such as the discontinued Power Mac G5 or today's Mac Pro.
Such an update is helped in part by details that Apple itself has unintentionally confirmed through software leaks, which show the Mac mini using the GeForce 9400M chipset in a significantly new model that would, as a result, have the faster video performance and support for DisplayPort that are both missing in the current model's Intel GMA 950 integrated graphics.
It also indirectly supports notions of a more flexible design that in past leaks has suggested might include the option of replacing the optical drive with a second hard drive.
People aware of the update, however, contradict claims of a partly black plastic enclosure and say that none of the material seems visible on the design, suggesting it won't quite fit the black-and-silver color scheme of the iMac or other current Apple computers.
The new model is widely expected to bow at Macworld and may be accompanied by a new iMac at the same time.
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249 Comments
Those familiar with the company's plans say the small form factor desktop will have both the Mini DisplayPort connector first introduced on unibody MacBooks but also a Mini DVI connector.
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This would be a smart move on Apple's part. Would be interesting to see if they decide on using the 9600M as well. Doubtful but who knows.
This would be a smart move on Apple's part. Would be interesting to see if they decide on using the 9600M as well. Doubtful but who knows.
I would like to see this, but I also think it won't happen.
This would be a smart move on Apple's part. Would be interesting to see if they decide on using the 9600M as well. Doubtful but who knows.
Yeah, sounds like a good idea. But we won't know until Steve...err...Phil...umm...someone at Apple announces the new Mac mini.
That would be a welcome addition to the MacMini, especially for its price. I doubt you'll see the 9600M shipping on it. I doubt you'll even see it as a BTO option for cost reasons (unless the selling price goes up).
If Apple can do these little things like make it optional to add a 2nd HD, install decent graphics on it, dual video out, SuperDrives across the lineup, and maybe integrate AppleTV software into it this will be a killer little Mac for a great price. MUCH better value than it currently is....
I wonder if Apple will switch the power connector to a Magsafe so customers could use the magsafe built into the LED Cinema Display? That would also give customers an iSight cam, more USB ports, and speakers as well.
How many mini DisplayPort monitors are on the market? The Mac Mini is targeted to people that have existing displays (and mice and keyboards). The Mini DVI is to serve that need, and the DisplayPort is there to allow use of such a monitor in the future, yielding flexibility in monitor choice. This makes perfect sense. Whether this will support two displays being driven at the same time is a separate feature.