Apple's next-generation M6 chip debuts in the new Mac mini, introducing a significant change to its CPU core lineup. For the first time in a base M-series chip, the M6 includes three types of cores: super, performance, and efficiency. This marks a shift from previous base chips, which only had performance and efficiency cores.

The super cores, formerly known as performance cores, are the most powerful, while the new performance cores serve as a mid-tier option. This architecture was previously exclusive to higher-end M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. With the M6, Apple brings this advanced core configuration to its entry-level silicon, offering improved multi-threaded performance and efficiency.

The M6 features 12 cores total: 2 super, 4 performance, and 6 efficiency cores. This upgrade represents a notable step forward for base Mac models, making high-performance computing more accessible.