Apple has introduced the newest Mac Mini, equipped with its latest M6 chip, marking a significant upgrade over previous models. The entry-level version is priced at $899, featuring 256GB of storage and 16GB of RAM. Preorders are open now, with shipments scheduled to begin after September 22. Apple highlights the M6's advancements, noting AI performance has quadrupled compared to the M4, along with doubled speeds in both storage and graphics capabilities.

The M6 processor includes a 12-core CPU and GPU, surpassing the earlier M4 chip’s 10-core setup. In addition to the M6 model, Apple has released a Mac Mini variant with the M5 Pro chip. This edition comes with 512GB of base storage, 24GB of RAM, and starts at $1,699. The M5 Pro chip features a 15-core CPU and 16-core GPU, with upgrade options pushing those numbers to 18 cores and 20 cores respectively.

Both Mac Mini models support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 connectivity, along with a 2.5GB Ethernet port, with the option to upgrade to a 10GB port for faster wired network performance. They run on the upcoming macOS 27, which integrates Siri AI, enhancing the user experience with more advanced intelligent assistant features. The Mac Mini has gained popularity among tech enthusiasts recently, often sought after for running local AI applications.

Alongside these new Mac Minis, Apple also unveiled updated Mac Studio models powered by M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips, priced from $2,499 and $5,499 respectively. Each offers substantial memory and storage improvements for demanding professional workflows. Notably, Apple discontinued its earlier base Mac Mini model with 256GB storage at a lower price earlier this year, signaling a shift towards more powerful configurations at higher starting prices.