System Configuration and Security #
- Disable Auto-Launch Apps: Manage startup applications by searching for "Login Items" in System Settings. Select unwanted apps and click the minus icon to prevent them from launching upon login.
- Performance Modes: In the "Energy" tab, users can enable Low Power Mode for light tasks. Owners of the M4 Pro model have a unique "High Power" mode option for demanding workflows like 3D modeling.
- Biometrics and Unlocking: Users can register multiple fingerprints in the "Touch ID & Password" section. Additionally, the "Unlock with Apple Watch" feature can be enabled to bypass passwords when the watch is in Bluetooth range.
Interface and Input Customization #
- Maximize Screen Real Estate: Enable "Automatically hide and show the Dock" in the "Desktop & Dock" settings to keep the toolbar hidden until the cursor hovers over it.
- Trackpad Optimization: In Trackpad settings, enable "Tap to Click" for faster navigation. Users can also adjust tracking and click speed for a more responsive feel.
- Magic Mouse Setup: Secondary (right) click and "Natural Scrolling" are often disabled by default; these can be toggled on in the Mouse settings to provide a standard desktop experience.
- Text Replacements: Create shortcuts for repetitive data entry (e.g., typing "@@" to auto-fill an email address) via Keyboard > Text Input > Text Replacement.
Gaming on Mac Mini #
- Native Gaming: Access titles through the App Store and Apple Arcade for the most stable experience.
- PC Steam Games: To run Windows-only Steam games on the M4 chip, the video recommends using Crossover (a paid compatibility layer).
- Controller Setup: Modern controllers (Xbox, PS5, Switch) are plug-and-play via USBC or Bluetooth. If inputs aren't registering, ensure "Input Monitoring" is enabled for Steam and Crossover in Privacy & Security settings.
Continuity and Productivity Features #
- iPhone Mirroring: Use the iPhone Mirroring app to control a mobile device from the Mac. If the wrong device is targeted, change the default phone in the "Desktop & Dock" settings.
- Continuity Camera/Scanner: Right-click in most document or note apps to "Insert from iPhone." This allows users to use their iPhone's camera as a live scanner that instantly sends the file to the Mac.
Summary #
This guide covers essential optimizations for the M4 Mac Mini, ranging from basic system housekeeping to advanced gaming setups. Key recommendations include tailoring energy modes for specific chip variants (M4 vs. M4 Pro), customizing peripheral inputs for better ergonomics, and using third-party software like Crossover to bridge the gap between macOS and Windows gaming. The video also highlights the deep integration between iPhone and Mac through mirroring and remote document scanning to enhance productivity.
last updated: