Apple's smallest tablet is poised for a significant upgrade, with the iPad Mini 7 expected to launch in late 2024. While the compact form factor that fans love is likely to remain unchanged, the new model is set to pack a serious punch under the hood.
A17 Pro Chip: A Major Leap Forward
The most exciting rumor surrounding the iPad Mini 7 is the inclusion of the A17 Pro chip, currently found in the iPhone 15 Pro models. This represents a substantial performance boost over the A15 Bionic in the current iPad Mini 6. The A17 Pro is expected to dramatically improve the tablet's capabilities for gaming, multitasking, and AI-powered features.
More RAM for Smoother Multitasking
Complementing the new chip, the iPad Mini 7 is rumored to double its RAM from 4GB to 8GB. This increase should result in noticeably smoother performance when running multiple apps or handling memory-intensive tasks.
Display Improvements
While the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display size is likely to remain the same, Apple is expected to address the jelly scrolling issue that plagued some iPad Mini 6 users. A new display controller should improve scrolling smoothness and overall responsiveness.
Storage and Connectivity Upgrades
The base storage is rumored to increase from 64GB to a more practical 128GB, with a 512GB option for power users. Connectivity will also see improvements with support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Launch Timeline
Industry insiders suggest an October 2024 release is likely, potentially alongside updates to the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini lines. However, some reports indicate the launch could be pushed to early 2025.
What's Not Changing
Despite the internal upgrades, the iPad Mini 7 is expected to retain its current design, including the 8.3-inch display, thin bezels, and Touch ID power button. The switch to an OLED display or the addition of ProMotion technology seems unlikely for this generation.
The iPad Mini 7 is shaping up to be a compelling upgrade for those who love the compact form factor but crave more power. With its significantly improved performance and subtle refinements, Apple's smallest tablet looks set to remain a unique and capable device in the company's lineup.
