Apple has refreshed the Mac mini with the M6 chip, launching in an unusual timing ahead of its main iPhone event. The new model represents a major generational shift, moving from the M4 to the M6 architecture, the first of its kind for the compact desktop. Externally, the M6 Mac mini is indistinguishable from its predecessor, retaining the same 5-inch square footprint and 1.5-pound weight.

The design, featuring a corner-mounted power button and front-facing USB-C ports, remains unchanged. Internally, however, specifications see significant upgrades. The M6 Mac mini features a 12-core CPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, compared to the M4's 10-core CPU and 16-core Neural Engine.

Memory bandwidth increases to 170GB/s from 120GB/s, and the device supports Wi-Fi 7. Storage options remain 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The launch starting price is $899, up from the M4's $599.

These performance and connectivity upgrades position the M6 as a substantial internal revision within the unchanged compact enclosure.