Apple lifts Mac Mini price to $899 as it unveils M6 and M5 Ultra chips
The surprise launch of updated desktops signals a shift towards AI performance, with base pricing up $300 and high-memory configurations delayed until late October.
Apple has opened preorders for its updated Mac Mini and Mac Studio lines, introducing the M6 and M5 Ultra processors in a surprise announcement that precedes its typical annual iPhone event. The move marks a significant refresh for the company’s compact desktop lineup, which previously relied on M4 and M4 Max chips.
The new Mac Mini, powered by the M6 chip, starts at $899, representing a $300 increase over the base model released in 2024. A higher-tier configuration featuring the M5 Pro chip is available from $1,699. Beyond the processor upgrades, the new Mini introduces improved connectivity standards, including 2.5Gb Ethernet as a baseline, alongside Bluetooth 6 and Wi-Fi 7.
At the premium end of the range, the updated Mac Studio begins at $2,499 for the M5 Max model, which includes 36GB of unified memory and 512GB of storage. This entry price matches the current M4 Max model. For users requiring more power, the M5 Ultra version, equipped with 96GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, is priced at $5,499.
Apple has indicated that the new machines focus heavily on AI performance, though specific performance gains compared to previous models have not been detailed in the initial release. The announcement highlights a strategic emphasis on connectivity and processing power for professional and enthusiast users.
Most configurations of both the Mac Mini and Mac Studio are scheduled to begin shipping on 22 September 2026. However, the highest-tier Mac Studio options, featuring 512GB of RAM, will not be available until late October, with pricing for these specific models yet to be announced.
