I think I have the answer in regard to the new Mac mini's power button placement. And I suspect it's not what most people think.

I think it's hidden on the bottom of the machine primarily because Apple does't really want you to turn it off. Ever.

And I think the reason for that is Apple Intelligence.

We all know that A-series chips have low power modes and efficiency cores that let them sip power when performing tasks in the background. In fact, I'd almost bet that a full-power startup sequence uses more energy than letting the machine idle at night.

But Apple Intelligence is designed to fetch and summarize news and emails and events. Download and categorize new photos. And more as time goes on.

Even, perhaps, acting as a Home hub.

And that depends on having an assistant... that never sleeps.

I'm almost surprised that it has a power button at all.