Credit Return Apple Ups DTK Mac Mini to $ 500 Following Developer Complaints

Prior to the release of the M1 Macs, Apple offered a $ 500 Developer Transition Kit (DTK) to developers that included a Mac mini equipped with an A12Z Bionic chip that was first used in the iPad Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and an HDMI 2.0 port.

The DTKs were available on a temporary basis, and earlier in the week, Apple said it would soon begin asking developers to return the Mac minis in exchange for a $ 200 credit.

Since developers issued $ 500, many were unhappy with the amount of credit, which also had to use the money by the end of May. Many developers complained about the size of Apple’s credit and the expiration deadline, as the end of May would not allow the credit to be used toward a product released later in 2021.

Apple has now reversed course and reduced credit, and now gives developers $ 500 to install a Mac ‌M1‌ or any other Apple product. The deadline for spending the credit has also been increased, with Apple bringing developers to the end of the year to use it.

We heard your feedback on the 200 USD estimate credit mentioned in our last email. Our goal was to recognize the tremendous effort you put into creating amazing universal apps. By joining us early, you showed your commitment to our platform and willingness to become trailblazers.

So, instead of the 200 USD credit that comes out in May, we are giving you Apple ‘s 500 USD credit and extending the time you can use to get a new Mac ‌M1‌ through the end of the year. If you have already purchased a new Mac ‌M1‌, Apple Credit gives you the flexibility to purchase any Apple product to help with your app development.

We’ll share details soon about how to get the Transition Developer Kit (DTK) back to Apple. Note that the DTK will no longer receive publicly available software updates after macOS Big Sur 11.2. We encourage you to return it as soon as possible so that your development work is not interrupted. And once you return the DTK, you get your Apple credit.

Apple first released developer transition devices in late June, so developers were able to use them for seven months. Developers were expected to have a year with the DTK for app development purposes, but other benefits that include a private discussion forum and technical support will still be available for the 12-month period.

As pointed out in Apple emails to developers, the $ 500 credit can be applied to any Apple product, including ‌M1‌ Macs or other devices.