Mac mini rumors response

Apple has responded via telephone to one customer that inquired about the Internet rumors suggesting that the Mac mini is set to be discontinued, according to Apple Insider. The concerned owner reportedly sent an email to the fresh hardware engineering chief, Bob Mansfield. He did not receive a response from the executive, however, but was contacted instead by an employee of the executive care division, affirming that the company is aware of the Mini's market value.

Fuel was added to the rumors when Apple stopped shipping the devices to certain countries overseas, although this does not necessarily equate to a domestic discontinuation plan. A product refresh or significant redesign are other possibilities. Although the representative did not confirm or give a time-frame for a future release, but did tell the the customer to be patient.

Although the Mini has not changed significantly in the past year, several sources seem confident that the product is being updated. Earlier this week, Apple publicly snuffed the suggestions that hardware updates would be released this year. The company could still introduce the products directly after the holidays at the Macworld Expo.

If the rumors are correct, the new Mini could offer a DisplayPort and support for up to 4GB of memory. The optical drive speed could be faster, or excluded completely if a customer prefers two hard drives instead. Apple has been integrating NVIDIA GPUs into many of its products, although it remains unclear if there are plans to add the processors to the Mini.

The Mini has a customer base wider than customers buying a new computer for the home. Several companies also use the compact device for use in enterprise or entertainment systems, including A/V, digital signage, and security products. Considering the state of the economy, the low price point could be a reason to keep offering the product.

by MacNN Staff