Okay, listen. Maybe I’m in the minority here; I still use and like USB-A. I know the EU wants to drag me kicking and screaming into a glorious utopian future where every device is powered and connected solely with USB-C cables and nothing else, but I’m simply not ready to surrender my sweet asymmetric port of yore. So tell me, Tim Cook, where are the USB-A ports on the new M4 Mac mini you just announced?

That’s right: the next-gen Mac mini does look like a wonderful little device – small enough to fit in your hand! – but Apple has officially ended its long-term relationship with USB-A, nixing the two ports found on the previous model in favor of more USB-C ports (five in total). It’s a big change, one that goes hand-in-hand with Apple redesigning its ‘Magic’ accessories to feature USB-C instead of the old proprietary Lightning ports (yes, the Magic Mouse charging port is still on the bottom, but I’m not kicking that particular hornet’s nest right now).

At least it has some ports on the front now. Good job on that part, Apple. (Image credit: Apple)

I get it. Even as a long-time Apple critic, I can sincerely say that this is a good move from the company. Switching to a uniform connection standard helps with inter-platform connectivity, reduces monopolistic influences within Apple’s tightly-controlled hardware ecosystem, and most importantly helps tackle the growing problem that is e-waste. This is a good thing. This is a good thing.



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