Apple has quietly introduced a refreshed iPad Mini, bringing significant performance upgrades and new features to its compact tablet lineup. This marks the first update to the iPad Mini since 2021, offering users a blend of power and portability.
A17 Pro Chip: A Leap in Performance
The star of this update is the inclusion of Apple's A17 Pro chip, previously seen in the iPhone 15 Pro series. This new silicon promises substantial performance gains:
- 30% faster CPU performance
- 25% faster GPU performance
- Neural Engine twice as fast as the previous model
These improvements position the new iPad Mini as a capable device for both productivity and creative tasks, especially when it comes to AI-driven features.
Apple Intelligence and Apple Pencil Pro Support
With the A17 Pro chip, the new iPad Mini becomes the most affordable entry point into Apple's ecosystem of AI-powered features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence. This gives the compact tablet an edge in terms of future-proofing and advanced capabilities.
Artists and note-takers will appreciate the added support for the Apple Pencil Pro, bringing features like:
- Pressure sensitivity
- Haptic feedback
- Gesture controls
Subtle Design Updates and Connectivity Improvements
While the overall design remains similar to its predecessor, Apple has introduced new color options:
- Purple
- Blue
These new hues offer a fresh, albeit muted, aesthetic compared to the previous generation.
Connectivity sees a boost with the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and a faster USB-C port, enhancing data transfer speeds and wireless performance.
Pricing and Availability
The new iPad Mini starts at $499 for the 128GB model, positioning it as an attractive option in Apple's tablet lineup. Pre-orders are now open, with devices shipping from October 23, 2024.
The Verdict
Apple's latest iPad Mini update brings significant under-the-hood improvements while maintaining the compact form factor that fans of the device love. With its powerful A17 Pro chip, Apple Intelligence capabilities, and Apple Pencil Pro support, the new iPad Mini offers a compelling package for those seeking a portable yet capable tablet experience.