Apple’s M4 Mac mini might be one of the best Macs ever, but it has a serious problem that needs fixing now
- Apple M4 Mac mini users are reporting issues with USB-C connections
- Accessories such as keyboards reportedly disconnect randomly
- Apple has not yet addressed the situation and it is not yet clear what the cause is
Although Apple’s latest mini PC is being hailed as one of the best Macs ever, as highlighted in our Mac mini (M4) review, it’s currently facing a major problem that seems to be annoying many users.
Multiple users claim they are experiencing random USB-C disconnections, as reported by AppleInsiderwhere accessories such as keyboards suddenly become loose. This is confirmed by several reports from users and a notable post on Redditimplying that the only way for the accessories to work again is to unplug and replug the cable, which is an inconvenience to say the least.
This can also cause problems transferring files between the Mac mini and an external USB-C drive if the connection is as frequent as reports suggest. It’s not exactly clear whether this is an error on Apple’s part, but all signs point to it being the case – as AppleInsider highlighted, some users’ errors stem from waking the Mac mini from sleep, which may be resolved in the future. software patch from Apple.
What is the best solution for now?
While there are plenty of accessories that can only be used via direct connections, Bluetooth is the best solution for now – which is also a concern, as M4 Mac mini users also reported Bluetooth issues in a recent December MacRumors forum.
These kinds of issues can quickly start to annoy users and undermine some of the things the Mac mini does so well, so Apple needs to address them as soon as possible.
In the case of an accessory like the Magic Mouse, you wouldn’t even be able to use it wired anyway – the USB-C charging port is on the bottom of the mouse, a major criticism for many since Apple has stuck with this design from the previous model. Luckily, it’s a wireless mouse, so it’ll do the trick while you wait for Apple to resolve the situation.
The M4 Mac mini wasn’t released until late last year in November, so weird bugs are to be expected. We’ll have to wait and see what the exact cause is, and let’s hope the wait isn’t too long.