Mac Mini with M5: Apple is supposed to test it hard

Friends of the Mac Mini does not have to be afraid that Apple’s smallest desktop computer in the new design will continue. Like the blog Appleinsider, citing sources in the company reportedtest Apple currently a variant with the M5 and one with the M5 Pro. These devices are expected at the end of the year, but rather in the early to mid -2026.

It is not a matter of course that Apple on the Mac Mini models with M4 and M4 Pro Pro immediately follows M5 and M5 Pro. M3 and M3 Pro had skipped Apple-the larger gap was probably due to the comprehensive reduction of the computer, which was carried out with the M4 generation. And in general, the M3 seemed to be a chip that Apple preferred to leave behind quickly due to higher production costs.

Tests with different software versions

The Mac Mini with M5 is said to have the name J873G, reports Appleinsider, the Pro variant J873S. The manufacturer thus follows the name scheme of the M4 generation. Apple allegedly tests the devices with MacOS 26.1, i.e. the first major update that appears according to MacOS 26 and is expected in September. However, test versions of MacOS 26.4 and MacOS 27 are also used for the tests. Version 26.4 is considered significant in that the basic renewal of voice assistant Siri is supposed to come with this version.

Observers do not assume that major changes to the exterior of the Mac Mini will take place with the change to the M5 generation. With the previous redesign, the housing of the Mini was significantly reduced. Apple also donated additional connections on the back and front. Only the decision to attach the on and off switch at diagonally under the device instead of on the back caused some discussions.

That should be able to do that better

The M5 promises some internal improvements in performance and energy consumption. The chip application TSMC is to continue to produce the processor with 3-nanometer structures. According to rumors, larger improvements are to be expected, especially in the pro and Max models, which are allegedly stacking several chips together with TSMCs “System on Integrated Chips” kit (Soic).

In addition to a new edition of the Mac Mini, the rumor mill also expects new models of the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max and maybe even a new Mac Pro.