ThinkSecret has posted about a rumor that Apple is working on "Kaleidoscope", a new Mac Mini containing an Intel processor, very likely a larger hard drive, and TiVo-like PVR capability. Also rumored to run the new FrontRow software, which is currently shipping on the iMac G5, this would make the Mac Mini into the living room multimedia component that it was originally rumored to be when it was first released.
Thinksecret also speculates that this Mac Mini may have the built-in iPod dock which was rumored to be part of the original Mini.
This ties in with my ongoing observations that Apple is moving piece-by-piece toward a full home media strategy to win the hearts and minds of a market that has been conditioned to Windows software. Moving the computing experience away from "computing" and more toward the experience of using a media appliance. One physical device for all media, affordable enough and simple enough to use that most homes can have one or even more, just like home stereo equipment or VCRs are today.
The new Mac Mini, if it exists, may be released at the MacWorld Expo in January. We're moving into the time period that many Mac fans like to delay purchases, as new announcements at MacWorld tend to make purchases within a month prior to the conference obsolete. I don't plan on purchasing any new hardware for quite some time due to the G4's engineering and durability, but something like Kaleidoscope might find its way into my home if it siginificantly improves my media experience.
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