The Mac mini is a great computer, and we love it here at Tom's Guide, but that doesn't mean we won't criticise Apple's design choices. In fact, in my colleague Anthony's review of the Mac mini M4, he said that, "if only Apple hadn’t put the power button on the bottom of the device, this would be a near perfect upgrade over the Mac mini M2."
Well, there's some good news to share today because with the release of macOS 26.5 Tahoe, Apple has finally delivered a software solution to this hardware headache.
The latest update introduces a new 'Power Control' section within the Energy settings, specifically designed for Mac desktops like the Mac mini, Mac Studio, and iMac. The standout feature as far as a lot of users (and Anthony) are concerned? Support for external switches.
That means you'll be able to use compatible accessories to power off or restart the Mac mini without ever needing to access the physical button on the underside of the chassis. What's more, according to Apple's support document, the new update will also give users the choice to have their Mac mini, Mac Studio, or iMac automatically turn on when connected to power. Nice!
Despite Apple categorizing this as an accessibility feature, I'd argue the addition of switch support is a big quality-of-life upgrade for all users. Especially if you like to tinker with your desk setup. For example, you could mount a compatible third-party switch to the side of your keyboard and have it always within reach.
Apple itself seems to quietly acknowledge the design misstep, noting this new feature is particularly helpful, “when you don't have easy access to the computer's power button.”
How to enable Power Control
If you’ve updated to macOS 26.5, you can find these new options by navigating to System Settings > Energy. From there, a new Power Control menu allows you to pair your external switches.
Additionally, the update includes a toggle to have your Mac automatically boot up as soon as it’s connected to power — a feature previously reserved for server-grade hardware but now available to the Mac mini M4, iMac M4, and the 2025 Mac Studio.
Bottom line
The macOS 26.5 is a relatively small update for Mac, but this particular addition does seem like it'll make a meaningful difference.
Hopefully, this small change means Apple is taking on board feedback that users and reviewers are pointing out — even if it's through software solutions rather than hardware revamps.
Of course, whether or not the next iteration of the Mac mini keeps the power button on the underside remains to be seen. Maybe that's a question for John Ternus to answer when he takes the reins at Apple in September.
