Mac mini M4 Setup Guide
Deploy Clawdbot on Mac mini with M4 or M4 Pro chip. This guide covers hardware requirements, system configuration, and performance optimization for the best personal AI OS experience.
Before You Begin
This guide assumes you have a Mac mini with Apple M4 or M4 Pro chip running macOS Sequoia 15.0 or later. For Intel-based Mac mini, refer to the legacy setup guide.
Hardware Requirements
Minimum Specifications
- Mac mini with Apple M4 chip (M4 Pro recommended)
- 16GB unified memory (32GB+ for optimal performance)
- 256GB SSD storage (512GB+ recommended)
- Ethernet connection (preferred over Wi-Fi)
- macOS Sequoia 15.0 or later
Recommended Configuration
- Mac mini with M4 Pro chip
- 32GB or 48GB unified memory
- 1TB SSD storage
- 10Gb Ethernet (if available)
macOS Initial Setup
System Preparation
- Complete macOS setup assistant
- Create a dedicated user account for Clawdbot
- Enable automatic login for the Clawdbot user
- Configure network preferences (Ethernet preferred)
- Enable Remote Login (SSH) for headless operation
System Preferences
- Disable sleep: System Settings → Energy Saver → Prevent automatic sleeping
- Enable location services if using location-aware features
- Configure firewall to allow Clawdbot connections
- Set up Time Machine for backups (optional but recommended)
Install Clawdbot
Using Homebrew (Recommended)
# Install Homebrew if not already installed
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
# Install Clawdbot
brew install clawdbot/tap/clawdbot
# Initialize Clawdbot
clawdbot initManual Installation
# Download latest release
curl -L https://github.com/clawdbot/clawdbot/releases/latest/download/clawdbot-macos-arm64 -o clawdbot
# Make executable
chmod +x clawdbot
# Move to PATH
sudo mv clawdbot /usr/local/bin/Configuration
Basic Setup
# Start interactive configuration
clawdbot configure
# The wizard will prompt for:
# - API keys and credentials
# - Network settings
# - Skill preferences
# - Automation rulesService Configuration
# Enable Clawdbot to start on boot
clawdbot service enable
# Start the service now
clawdbot service start
# Check service status
clawdbot service statusVerification
Test Your Installation
# Verify Clawdbot is running
clawdbot status
# Test basic functionality
clawdbot test
# View logs
clawdbot logs --followHealth Check
- Open the Clawdbot web interface (default: http://localhost:3000)
- Run the built-in diagnostics: `clawdbot diagnostics`
- Test voice interaction if enabled
- Verify network connectivity and gateway pairing
Performance Optimization
Get the most out of your Mac mini M4 with these optimization tips
Neural Engine Utilization
The M4's 16-core Neural Engine accelerates AI workloads. Ensure Clawdbot is configured to use Apple's Neural Engine (ANE) for optimal performance.
Memory Management
With unified memory, CPU and GPU share the same pool. Close unnecessary applications and consider the 32GB or 48GB configuration for heavy workloads.
Thermal Management
Mac mini M4 has excellent thermal characteristics. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing in enclosed spaces during sustained AI workloads.
Network Configuration
Use Ethernet for stable, low-latency connections. If using Wi-Fi, ensure 5GHz band and strong signal for optimal performance.
Common Issues
Gateway Pairing Failed
Ensure your Mac mini is connected to the same network as your gateway device. Check firewall settings and verify the gateway is in pairing mode. Try restarting both devices.
High Memory Usage
The M4's unified memory is shared between CPU and GPU. 16GB is the minimum for smooth operation. Consider closing unnecessary applications or upgrading to 32GB+.
Voice Recognition Not Working
Check microphone permissions in System Settings → Privacy & Security. Ensure your Mac mini has a compatible microphone connected.
Next Steps
Your Mac mini is now running Clawdbot. Here's what to do next.