The M4 Mac mini has an overhauled design that adds more ports in a slimmed down package, and to make everything fit, Apple needed a new place for the...
Functionally it’s harder to accidentally press on the bottom.
Although it’s also now harder to intentionally press too. It looks like a finger can fit under there, otherwise you’ll be flipping it over to power on.
But why? Same question for the Magic Mouse?
It’s a subtle hint that you don’t have to power off your computer between uses. Most modern computers go into an ultra low power mode when not in use.
or maybe so the mac can be used as a home hub?
Functionally it’s harder to accidentally press on the bottom.
Although it’s also now harder to intentionally press too. It looks like a finger can fit under there, otherwise you’ll be flipping it over to power on.