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Apple today released an update to its Mac mini line, bringing Intel's Sandy Bridge platform to the diminutive desktop computer along with new support for the Thunderbolt connectivity standard being pushed by Apple and Intel. The new Mac mini lineup consists of two standard stock configurations alongside a "server" model. Notably, all models drop the optical disc in favor of an optional external SuperDrive.
Standard models
- 2.3 GHz Intel Core i5, 500 GB hard drive, 2 GB RAM: $599
- 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5, 500 GB hard drive, 4 GB RAM: $799
Server model
- 2.0 GHz, dual 500 GB hard drives, 4 GB RAM: $999
Additional build-to-order options include an upgrade to 8 GB of RAM, up to 750 GB hard drives, and an external SuperDrive. The high-end standard model and the server model can also be configured with one (standard) or two (server) 256 GB solid-state drives.
The new Mac mini delivers up to twice the processor and graphics performance of the previous generation in the same amazingly compact and efficient aluminum design.* Starting at just $599 (US), the new Mac mini is available for order today and in stores tomorrow.
“Mac mini delivers the speed and expandability that makes it perfect for the desktop, living room or office,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “With faster processors, more powerful graphics and Thunderbolt in an incredibly compact, aluminum design, the new Mac mini is more versatile than ever.”
All Mac mini models ship with OS X Lion pre-installed.
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Alongside the new Mac mini models, Apple also announced a new Apple Thunderbolt Display. Appearing nearly identical to the previous 27-inch LED Cinema Display, the primary upgrade to Apple's sole standalone display offering is Thunderbolt compatibility, enabling the device to be used within daisy-chained configurations of the new high-speed data and display connectivity standard. With the new standard, users can for the first time run two displays off of a single Thunderbolt port on Macs offering enough graphics horsepower to support the pixel load.
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The upgrade to Thunderbolt also allows Apple to turn the display into an "ultimate docking station", with the new display now offering a built-in FaceTime HD camera, 2.1 speaker system, three USB ports, one Firewire 800 port, one Gigabit Ethernet port, and a second Thunderbolt port to enable daisy chaining. An integrated MagSafe cable for powering connected notebook computers also continues to be offered.
“The Apple Thunderbolt Display is the ultimate docking station for your Mac notebook,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing.” With just one cable, users can dock with their new display and connect to high performance peripherals, network connections and audio devices.”
Images of the new Thunderbolt-enabled LED Cinema Display leaked on Apple's site late last week, foreshadowing their arrival alongside the Mac minis that do not ship with an included display. The new LED Cinema Display will be available within the next 60 days and is priced at $999.
Top Rated Comments
I don't know about you, but the Windows users I know are all about physical media consumption. Now I've gone from explaining "Macs don't do games because..." to "Macs don't have CD drives because..." Do you know how many people are going to laugh at that statement?
I feel that this is just Apple's price increase to the Mini without actually increasing the price of the Mini. It had a $100 price hike not too long ago, and now (something as primitive as) using CDs / DVDs will cost you an extra $100 for an external device. Absurd.
Furthermore, Apple is All about eliminating clutter - how is having to have an external drive eliminating clutter? If anything, the Mini is all about simplicity. Having one more thing on the desk is not a selling point. Having one built in is. Only a select few Mac lovers / longtime users won't mind the lack of a drive. Even some who aren't still won't mind. The majority however, will spring for an external optical drive. I now consider the Mini's base price to be $699...
Guess what that optical drive is coming out of next. That iMac sure looks like it could trim some fat. Now, I've actually wanted that to be horizontal since the death of the iMac G4. That, I'll welcome. It had just better accompany a $100 price drop or a free bundle into the box.
Looks like most users don't agree, but I do. My thoughts exactly.
Heh, if I had a dollar every time someone used the phrase "Epic Fail" to Apple on MacRumors, my bank account would be Too Big To Fail.
Funny, one epic failure after another from Apple keeps leading to record sales.
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