We have all heard the rumors of an Intel-base Mac Mini being released in January. ThinkSecret has more information supporting that fact, as well as the possibliity that the new Mactel Mini will be re-introduced as a digital hub for the home.

The new project is codenamed Kaleidescope and includes Front Row 2.0 and a Tivo-like recording application.

While the specific model and speed of the Intel processor in the new Mac mini is unknown, sources are confident the system will be ready for roll-out at Macworld Expo San Francisco, in line with other reports Think Secret has received that Intel-based Macs will be ready some six months sooner than originally expected.

The new Mac mini is also said to sport a built-in iPod dock, a feature that was scrapped from the Mac mini Apple first introduced one year ago. Other hardware specifics are unknown, such as whether the Mac mini will feature video recording out of the box or whether an add-on will be offered for those looking to employ the Mac mini not as a second computer but as their living room command center.