If you have a Developer Transition Kit Mac mini from Apple, it’s almost time to ship it back. Apple has confirmed that developers have until March 31, 2021, to send the Developer Transition Kit (DTK) back to Cupertino.
Per a new email sent out to members of its Universal App Quick Start Program, Apple says that developers need to return these Mac prototypes with Apple Silicon chips by the end of March:
Thanks again for participating in the Universal App Quick Start Program and committing to building great apps for Mac. We’re following up with shipping instructions to return the Developer Transition Kit (DTK) that was loaned to you as part of the program. Please take a moment to review these details and ship all DTKs back to us by March 31, 2021.
The Mac minis with A12Z Bionic chips were leased out so that developers could create and update apps compatible with the Apple Silicon platform, which surfaced with the new M1-based Macs.
Developers had to pay $500 to receive a DTK Mac mini, with Apple initially offering only a $200 credit to developers after requesting the units back. Following several prominent complaints, Apple has upped the return credit to $500 per unit for a return of the computers.
The $500 credit will be offered as a one-time promo code that can be redeemed in the Apple Online Store to purchase a new M1 Mac or any other Apple product, except Gift Cards or AppleCare+ plans. Developers have until December 31, 2021 to use the $500 credit:
As we mentioned in our last email, upon confirmed return of the DTK, you’ll receive a credit for 500 USD in the form of a one-time use promo code valid until the end of 2021. You can use it toward the purchase of a new M1 Mac or other Apple products ordered through the Apple Store Online.
Promotional codes are provided for 500 USD or equivalent in local currency based on January 2021 exchange rates, and valid until December 31, 2021. Apple Gift Cards and AppleCare+ are excluded. Purchase total must be greater than 500 USD to be eligible for this discount.
Should a developer refuse to return the DTK kit, they will not receive the $500 credit, and could possibly be banned from the Apple Developer program. Apple has stated that the DTK Mac minis will no longer receive any software updates, which may make them unusable after a certain period of time.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via 9to5Mac