Apple has announced the new Mac mini desktop computer, equipped with the latest M6 and M5 Pro processors to deliver significant gains in artificial intelligence workloads and computational power. The updated desktop retains its compact aluminum footprint while introducing updated silicon architecture and faster connectivity standards.
According to hardware specifications provided by the manufacturer, the M6 configuration delivers up to four times faster AI processing and double the graphics performance compared to the prior generation. In addition, the device features a redesigned internal layout designed to support sustained high-performance operations in computing hardware environments.
Performance Upgrades in the new Mac mini
The standard model features the M6 chip, which incorporates a 12-core central processing unit and a 12-core graphics processing unit. Each GPU core now includes dedicated Neural Accelerators, marking the first time this hardware architecture has been implemented on the compact desktop lineup. Consequently, local artificial intelligence models run significantly faster on the device.
Furthermore, the M6 configuration comes standard with 16GB of unified memory, with optional configurations reaching up to 32GB at a memory bandwidth of 170GB/s. The dual 16-core Neural Engine delivers double the performance of previous models, accelerating daily task automation and machine learning workflows.
“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.”
Johny Srouji, Apple Chief Hardware Officer
M5 Pro Capabilities for Demanding Workflows
For professional users requiring higher compute density, Apple introduced the M5 Pro configuration. This model provides up to an 18-core CPU and up to a 20-core GPU featuring third-generation ray tracing architecture. As a result, the system accelerates demanding tasks such as 3D rendering in Blender and code compilation for mobile platforms.
The M5 Pro variant supports up to 64GB of unified memory and achieves 307GB/s memory bandwidth. Notably, users can interconnect multiple desktop units using high-speed Thunderbolt 5 ports to cluster compute resources for large diffusion models and intensive scientific simulations.
Connectivity and Environmental Standards
Physical connectivity options include two front-facing USB-C ports alongside a high-impedance headphone jack. The rear panel houses three Thunderbolt ports, supporting Thunderbolt 4 on the M6 version and Thunderbolt 5 on the M5 Pro model. Both variants also feature HDMI, standard 2.5Gb Ethernet, and an optional 10Gb Ethernet upgrade.
Wireless connectivity has been upgraded to support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 standards. From an environmental perspective, the new Mac mini is manufactured using 50 percent recycled materials, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in the chassis and 100 percent recycled rare earth elements in internal magnets.
Pricing and Regional Availability
The desktop runs on macOS 27, which introduces updated indexing for Spotlight search and performance optimizations for built-in applications. Pre-orders for the hardware opened on August 25 across 30 countries and territories, with official retail shipments beginning September 22.
In Saudi Arabia, pricing for the M6 configuration starts at SAR 4,299, with an education discount price of SAR 3,799. The M5 Pro configuration starts at SAR 7,999, or SAR 7,499 for qualifying education customers.
