Leaked Mac Mini Ad Kicks Off Rumor Mill

The first so called leaked image of the upcoming Mac mini has been made public. There is a lot of doubt that this is the real refreshed mini, sources indicate. Nevertheless, no one goes to fully dismiss the possibility that we're looking at Apple's next generation of low-end desktop computers.

Silicon Alley Insider has picked up on a Macenstein post, which says that an anonymous tipster has sent in this Mac mini ad (pictured left - click to enlarge). There are serious reasons to believe Apple is revamping not only the Mac mini, but also its iMac line. Historically though, leaks like these have almost always (if not always) been dismissed.

For once, Apple isn't likely to use blue LEDs, says the source spotting the post accompanied by imagery. We'd say that's true. Apple has never employed blue lighting, whether it's the indicators on an AC adapter, or the LED signaling that the iSight camera is on. Apple likes green lights and, probably not coincidentally, tries to stay green by removing toxic chemicals from its products.

Then, there's the tag line, of course. With more reliable sources claiming that Apple is going to tout its new mini as “the greenest Mac ever,” we can't help but doubt that Apple is either aiming to reduce space on a non-portable computer, or that it is trying to revolutionize marketing by using two tag lines. Plus, why would Apple deliberately create a system this small that would most certainly pose a serious challenge as far as cooling goes.

Lastly, the same sources point out to the Mac mini's apparently flawed design. According to the report, Apple isn't likely to approve such an “ugly lip” on its streamlined Mac mini. As usual, we will let you, the readers, give the verdict on this one.