Apple has announced the completely new iPad mini device. This highly anticipated seventh-generation model features the A17 Pro chip designed to support Apple Intelligence. Visually, it looks exactly like the previous iPad mini, but there are some key upgrades under the hood.
The A17 Pro chip, also found in the iPhone 15 Pro series, boasts a six-core CPU that delivers 30% better performance than the previous model. It also offers a 5-core GPU for improved graphics performance. In addition to the A17 Pro chip, the 2024 model of the iPad mini features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, a 12-megapixel main camera, and support for Apple Pencil Pro.
When unveiling the iPad mini (A17 Pro), Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of global product marketing, said: “There is no other device in the world like the iPad mini, beloved for its powerful performance and versatility in one of our most portable devices. The design. iPad mini attracts a wide range of users and has been specifically designed for Apple Intelligence, providing powerful new smart, personal, and unique features. With the powerful A17 Pro chip, faster connectivity, and support for Apple Pencil Pro, the new iPad mini delivers the full iPad experience in our most portable and amazingly priced design.”
Starting at $499, the new iPad mini is available for pre-order in blue, space gray, purple, and Starlight colors. It comes in storage capacities of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB and is available in Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions. The tablet will officially launch in 29 countries and regions on Wednesday, October 23. It is worth noting that the initial storage space is noteworthy, as it is double the 64GB capacity available in the previous iPad mini model.
The first components of Apple Intelligence are expected to be launched through a software update by the end of the month. The iPad mini 7 will join iPad devices with the M1 chip or newer to support Apple’s artificial intelligence features.
