Apple updates the Mac mini line with improved hardware, $499 starting price tag

Apple today announced it was refreshing its Mac mini desktops, the first update the product line has seen in two years. The new Mac minis will include a 4th-generation Intel Core processor, Intel Iris and HD Graphics 5000, PCIe flash storage, 802.11ac WiFi, and two Thunderbolt 2 ports. Apple is billing the Mac mini as the world's most energy efficient desktop.

The Mac mini is available today with a starting price tag of $499, which is $100 off the price of previous entry-level model.