Apple has announced a surprise update to its Mac mini, introducing the M6 chip that delivers a 40 per cent jump in CPU performance. The refreshed device also boasts boosted AI performance, faster storage and graphics, and comes with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and 2.5Gb Ethernet for improved connectivity.
Compact design, bigger power
The Mac mini keeps its compact palm-sized form factor and aluminium casing, with USB-C ports on the front for easier access. As standard, it includes 16GB of unified memory, expandable to 32GB for users needing extra capacity.
Prices for the M6 Mac mini start from £899. Apple is also launching an M5 Pro model, starting at £1,699, which takes performance up another notch. Customers can pre-order the new Mac mini now, with availability in stores from September 22.
Mac Studio also upgraded
Alongside the Mac mini, Apple has released an upgrade to its Mac Studio, now available with M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips. Some tasks can be performed over 10 times faster compared to previous models. The new Mac Studio features faster storage and a comprehensive array of pro connectivity.
Mac Studio with M5 Max starts at £2,499, and the M5 Ultra starts at £5,499. Apple's chief hardware officer, Johny Srouji, said: "Mac mini has always been our most versatile Mac. Whether it's being used as a home computer, powering a professional studio, or as an always-on agentic device, it's the little Mac that can do it all. Today, we're taking this versatility even further. With a more powerful CPU and graphics, Neural Accelerators in the GPU, and higher memory bandwidth, Mac mini with M6 delivers a whole new level of AI performance. And with up to an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU, Mac mini with M5 Pro is an ultracompact powerhouse for complex pro workflows. We can't wait to see all the incredible ways people will use it next."
