Repair experts have previously tried to remove and replace the NAND flash memory on the MacMini (2024) solid-state drive to expand the capacity, for example, from 256GB to 2TB. Although the interface is similar to NVMeM.2SSD, it is invalid to directly install an ordinary hard drive. Apple still uses some mechanism to detect whether the hard drive is compatible.
However, tests by iFixit, a well-known disassembly website, show that MacMini interchangeable hard drives of the same model can continue to be used. This means that Apple should not have locked the hard drive plate, so it can still be used after reinstalling the system after exchanging the hard drive.
But this is limited to the same model. For example, solid-state drives equipped with M4 chips and M4Pro chips are not interchangeable. After exchange, some kind of verification will be triggered and the system cannot be installed.
Even so, this is good news for MacMini users or third-party accessories merchants. As long as the hard drive board is not locked, similar boards can be manufactured.
I believe that Huaqiangbei, which is very well-known in this field, may soon launch a third-party large-capacity solid-state drive that is compatible with MacMini. It can be recognized and installed without disassembling the small board to replace the NAND flash memory.
Of course, there will be a new pit here: the relatively low-priced MacMini (2024) 16GB+2TB version on some second-hand trading platforms may be a replacement hard drive. If the user does not understand this situation, he may be cut off.