Enhanced Connectivity
- Thunderbolt 5 integration (from USB4)
- WiFi 7 for faster wireless connections
- 5/10Gb LAN for even faster wired networking
- Power Delivery (PD) via Type-C ports
Graphics Advancements
- Mobile GPU support with universal connectors (non-soldered)
- Powerful integrated GPUs from Intel
- AMD’s RDNA3 based APUs
- UHBR20 (80Gbps) Compatible DisplayPort outputs
- Oculink port for eGPUs
Storage and Memory Upgrades
- Gen 5 SSDs, upgrading from Gen 4
- DDR5 high-frequency RAM becomes mainstream
Processor Innovations
- Improved ARM-based models for efficiency
- AI NPUs (Neural Processing Units) for accelerated AI tasks
Expanded Functionality
- Built-in displays for system stats and monitoring
- 4G/5G modem slots separate from WiFi
- Better cooling solutions, including liquid phase change
Versatility and Customization
- Universal connectors for easier upgrades
- Modular designs for enhanced flexibility
Many of these features may not come as current MiniPCs are powerful enough and may not justify the extra cost.