We would be talking about a computer that would be ultra-portable, lightweight and that would allow users to easily take it anywhere. Let’s also take into account Apple’s tendency to develop “mini” products of its most popular devices, such as the iPhone mini, the iPad mini or the brand new and powerful Mac mini.
Should Apple develop a MacBook mini?
First of all, we want to mention that although in past decades converting a product into a “mini” was seen as a wonderful technological innovation, in 2024 it is true that it has more limitations than benefits.
In the 90s, it was anticipated that by 2024, almost all devices could fit in a pocket, but the reality is different. Although smartphones and laptops have become slimmer and more stylizedthe size of its screens has increased to offer a more immersive and comfortable user experience. Even for products like the iPhone, which were expected to remain small, growth in size has been inevitable. An iPhone 16, for example, is noticeably larger than its first versions, and the market has shown that consumers prefer devices with large screens for browsing, watching videos and working.
Apple has experimented with smaller products in the past, such as the iPhone mini or iPad mini. Both devices have had their audience, but they have also shown that interest in compact devices is limited. The iPhone mini, despite being praised by critics and a select group of users, failed to achieve the expected sales, leading Apple to remove it from its main line.
The iPad mini, for its part, has survived mainly thanks to its niche in professional and entertainment applications. However, in general terms, the market has shown a clear preference for larger screens.
The Mac mini is a clear success story in a reduced size, because it does not imply a reduction in the screen, as it allows the user to choose their own monitor, thus adapting to different size and visual quality needs. However, translating this idea to a MacBook is a completely different challenge. A MacBook mini would involve a smaller screen and, above all, a small keyboard, which could be uncomfortable for users. Additionally, while Apple could optimize components to fit a compact size, battery life and overall functionality would suffer.
The MacBook mini would be better than the iPad Pro
A MacBook mini would compete directly with the iPad Prowhich, when combined with the Magic Keyboard, already offers a laptop-like experience, with the advantage of being lighter and more versatile. It is true that iPadOS, as an operating system, is still far from macOS, and that is where they could differentiate themselves.
Still, the idea of a MacBook mini has its appeal. Such a device could be aimed at students or professionals who need extreme portability without requiring a large screen or keyboard.
However, Apple would have to justify the existence of this new product in an already saturated market and convince users that the reduced size would not compromise the user experience.
