At our August 20th meeting, Robert gave us his first impressions of a new M1 Mac mini and 4K monitor along with some tips on choosing and specifying a new Mac.
M1 First Impressions
Robert talked about choosing which Apple Silicon Mac model and spec to buy. He covered his first impressions of a new M1 Mac mini, which were very positive, including a quick and easy setup, excellent performance and no compatibility problems so far.
He highlighted:
- The importance of choosing the right model and specification for you when purchasing as M1 Macs feature no internal user upgrade options.
- How to check if your apps are Apple Silicon versions. If you want to check Apple Silicon compatibility in advance of buying a new Mac, Is Apple Silicon ready has an app compatibility database.
- Great performance of both Apple Silicon and Intel apps, with Safari being particularly impressive.
- Running iOS apps on Mac, these can now be downloaded from the Mac app store. Robert demonstrated the game Monument Valley 2.
- The M1 Mac mini has limited ports available (2 USB-A and 2 Thunderbolt 4/USB-C) so you may need to consider how you will connect your peripherals.
Robert also talked about using a 4K monitor with the new Mac including the various scaling options available in Display Preferences.
DaveK gave an impromptu demonstration of using a multi-monitor setup to extend his desktop across a 4K and standard resolution montiors. This included arranging the display positions in Display preferences and moving apps between screens using Mission Control.
Member Suggestions & Topics
- Liz pointed out that you can listen to Classic FM on the web via Global Player.
- We also talked about the BBC Sounds app and web site.
- DavidB couldn’t join us but sent a recommendation for season 2 of Truth Be Told on Apple TV+.
- We discussed the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. Here are articles on the topic from The Independent and Sam Grant of Liberty writing on politics.co.uk.