New Mac Mini Has Two Storage Downsides, Including Unremovable SSD

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Published: 2026-09-23T07:25:35.509Z • Permanent link

Recent revelations from Expand Mac mini have confirmed that the new Mac Mini models with the M6 and M5 Pro chips feature soldered NAND storage, a design choice that may raise eyebrows among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. This shift in storage configuration is a notable departure from the previous models, which boasted removable SSDs. According to sources close to Apple, the decision to solder NAND storage to the logic board was made in an effort to enhance the overall durability and security of the device.

Industry insiders speculate that the change in design may be attributed to the increasing prevalence of sophisticated malware and cyber threats. By soldering NAND storage, Apple may be attempting to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. Furthermore, the use of soldered storage could also facilitate more efficient data transfer and reduced wear and tear on the device's storage components. Notably, the move is also in line with Apple's efforts to streamline its manufacturing process and reduce the complexity of its products.

Meanwhile, Apple's decision to adopt soldered NAND storage has sparked a heated debate among researchers and developers. Some have expressed concerns about the potential limitations imposed on users, while others see the move as a necessary step towards creating more secure and efficient computing devices. Apple's competitors, however, seem to be taking a more cautious approach, with some analysts suggesting that the move may ultimately benefit the tech giant's bottom line.

The implications of Apple's decision to solder NAND storage on the Mac Mini models are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the broader AI and tech ecosystems. For research communities and development teams, the change in design may pose significant challenges in terms of data accessibility and transfer. Moreover, the reduced flexibility offered by soldered storage could also limit the potential for customization and innovation in the Mac Mini ecosystem.

Several companies, including those involved in the development of AI and machine learning algorithms, may also be affected by the move. As these companies rely on Mac Minis to process and analyze vast amounts of data, the reduced flexibility offered by soldered storage could ultimately impact their ability to develop and deploy new AI-powered applications. In this regard, the decision may have significant implications for the development of AI-driven services and products across various industries.

The decision to solder NAND storage on the Mac Mini models is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a larger trend in the tech industry. In recent years, several major tech companies have moved towards more secure and efficient storage solutions, often at the expense of flexibility and customization. This shift is driven in part by the increasing prevalence of sophisticated cyber threats and the need for greater data security.