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Apple has unveiled its new iPad mini, featuring the A17 Pro chip and designed to enhance user experience with its powerful performance and Apple Intelligence.
The newly announced iPad mini offers a substantial performance boost, with improvements in CPU and GPU speeds, a Neural Engine that is twice as fast as the previous model, and compatibility with Apple Intelligence. This feature set is intended to assist users with task management while maintaining user privacy. Apple Intelligence functionalities will initially be available in U.S. English, with a software update to iPadOS 18.1 expected to roll out shortly, supporting devices with A17 Pro or M1 chips and later versions.
The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display is a key feature of the new iPad mini, which is available in four colours: blue, purple, starlight, and space grey. This model also supports Wi-Fi 6E, providing up to double the performance compared to its predecessor, and offers a USB-C port that facilitates faster data transmission at rates up to 10Gbps.
Bob Borchers, Apple's Vice President of Worldwide Product Marketing, commented on the new device by stating, "There is no other device in the world like iPad mini, beloved for its combination of powerful performance and versatility in our most ultraportable design. iPad mini appeals to a wide range of users and has been built for Apple Intelligence, delivering intelligent new features that are powerful, personal, and private."
Photography capabilities have been improved with the iPad mini's 12MP wide back camera, which now supports Smart HDR 4. Machine learning is utilised to help detect and scan documents directly from the Camera app. Additionally, the front-facing 12MP Ultra Wide camera supports Centre Stage, enhancing video calls and selfies.
Apple Pencil Pro, a new accessory for the iPad mini, enhances the device's interactivity, offering features such as squeeze sensing for accessing tool palettes, haptic feedback, and more intuitive sketching capabilities. It also supports magnetically pairing and charging on the iPad mini.
The device runs iPadOS 18, which promises to deliver new features and more customisation options. New tools in apps like Calculator and Photos are aimed at boosting productivity and creativity, while control over interface elements offers enhanced functionality.
The iPad mini's environmental credentials include using 100% recycled aluminum and other recycled materials in its construction, and its packaging is fully fibre-based to align with Apple's sustainability goals.
The new iPad mini is available for pre-order, and shipping is scheduled to start on Wednesday, 23 October.
