Mac mini logic board with 10 Gigabit Ethernet listed in service document

Reported by MacRumors, Apple has listed multiple Mac mini logic boards featuring both the M1 processor and a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port in an internal parts list created for the company's Authorized Service Providers.

While the current M1-based Mac mini available to consumers is only able to be configured with Gigabit Ethernet, the parts list released to service providers shows a corresponding 10 Gigabit Ethernet logic board.

Source: MacRumors

The report notes that there are multiple possibilities for the part to exist on the sheet, such as a special configuration for enterprise use or that Apple plans to release a 10 Gigabit version in the near future.

While the boards are available to order (in limited quantities), it is unclear why at this point. There are several possibilities, including that Apple listed the parts mistakenly or before it decided against offering a 10 Gigabit Ethernet option. The logic boards could also be designated for special circumstances, such as enterprise use. Apple could also choose to release an M1-based Mac mini with 10 Gigabit Ethernet at a later time.

Customers who are unable to wait for an M1 Mac mini featuring 10 Gigabit Ethernet can still purchase an Intel-based machine featuring the technology.