Macworld 2009 Rumors: New Mac Mini

One of the best computers I have ever owned was the Mac Mini; it is a small but powerful CPU that measures two inches tall and 6.5 inches wide. Tucked inside that little case is a powerful computer that, until the recently, has met all the needs of a basic computer user. Unfortunately, the Mac Mini hasn't received any improvements since 2007. All that is about to chance at Macworld 2009. According to MacRumors.com, the Mac Mini is about to receive both a performance boost and a facelift.

Unlike Apple's line of iMacs, the Mini requires a user to supply their own keyboard, mouse, and display. The new Mac Mini design will not change the basics, but much of the insides are rumored to be changing. On January 6, Macworld 2009, the keynote presenter, Phil Schiller, is expected to announce a new Mac Mini with an internal SATA optical drive, clock speed boost, and a new NVIDIA graphics processor. This doesn't just mean speed and performance improvements for Mac Mini users, but it also means that the new Mac Mini will allow users to take advantage of the new OpenCL processing ability of OS X Snow Leopard.

The graphic limitations and limitations in how much RAM a user could include in the Mac Mini were always two of the largest complaints and drawbacks of the mighty little computer. With the improvements that are rumored to be released at Macworld 2009, those problems might just be going away.

In addition to a performance improvement, the Mac Mini will be getting a physical makeover as well. The current Mac Mini is a silver plastic body with a white plastic top. The new Mac Mini will most likely fall in line with all of the other Apple products with a sleek black plastic and aluminum body. This design will be similar with both the new MacBooks released in October, 2008 and the new iMacs rumored to be released at Macworld 2009 as well. The unified design structure adds continuity to the Apple line; all computers, from the iPhone to the iMacs will be easily identifiable as an Apple. Besides, black and silver just makes for a good looking computer.

The size and power of the Mac Mini are not its only draw, it is also the most affordable computer that Apple offers. The New Mac Mini will likely stay affordable as well. If the new Mac Mini can maintain its small size and cost, then Macworld 2009 will be a hit for Mac Mini users.