Apple's tiny desktop computer, Mac Mini, has not been updated for over three years. When Apple's big product showcase event last month ended without any word about the Mac Mini, many feared that the product may be discontinued. However, those fears can now be laid to rest, as Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook promised that the Mac Mini is part of Apple's future.

Due to the company's silence about the Mac Mini, a member of MacRumors decided to send an email to Cook himself, inquiring about the beloved device.

Surprisingly, the company head wrote back, saying that the device is part of the company's future product line. However, he also noted that it is not yet time to share details about the device.

"I'm glad you love Mac mini," Cook wrote in his response. "We love it too. Our customers have found so many creative and interesting users for Mac mini. While it is not time to share any details, we do plan for Mac mini to be an important part of our product line going forward."

This statement echoes the one given by Phil Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing earlier this year. When asked about the Mac Mini during a discussion about the company's professional-use devices, the executive said, "We weren't bringing it up because it's more of a mix of consumer and some pro use." However, he did offer the same vague reassurance. "The Mac Mini remains a product in our lineup," he added.

The Mac Mini is Apple's most affordable desktop. It comes without any peripherals, as users will have to have their own display, keyboard, and mouse.

Other Apple computing devices are getting updates from the company soon. The iMac is getting a "Pro" upgrade before the end of the year, and a brand new Macbook Pro is set to be launched next year.