Apple has introduced its latest iPad Mini, marking the first significant upgrade to its smallest tablet since 2021. In a press release on Tuesday, Apple revealed that the new iPad Mini will be available for pre-order immediately, with units hitting stores on October 23. Priced at $499, the device comes with a faster processor, expanded storage, and support for Apple's latest artificial intelligence (AI) features, positioning it as a more powerful tool for users who prefer a compact tablet.
The new iPad Mini is powered by Apple's A17 Pro chip, the same processor used in last year's iPhone 15 Pro. This upgrade represents a major leap in performance, with a 30% faster central processing unit (CPU), a 25% boost in graphics processing (GPU), and a Neural Engine that is twice as fast as its predecessor. Apple's focus on AI-driven capabilities is evident in this update, as the enhanced power will enable smoother performance in apps leveraging Apple Intelligence, the company's suite of AI features rolling out to users this month.
While the device's overall design remains similar to the previous generation, Apple has introduced some subtle changes. The new iPad Mini now comes in two additional color options: purple and blue, though the tones are more muted compared to the vivid hues of other recent Apple products like the iPhone 16. Despite the unchanged size and structure, the real shift is under the hood, with Apple packing more power into the Mini to handle the increased demands of AI and hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a feature aimed at improving graphics in high-end mobile games.
"Apple is clearly positioning the iPad Mini as a device that can do more with less," said David McQueen, an analyst at ABI Research. "By leveraging the A17 Pro chip, Apple is making its smallest iPad an appealing option for users who need a portable tablet that can also handle intensive AI tasks and gaming."
One of the key highlights of this update is the improved base storage. The new iPad Mini now starts with 128GB of storage, double that of the previous model, which offered 64GB. This increase is particularly important given the growing size of apps and data, especially those utilizing machine learning and AI. For artists and note-takers, the iPad Mini supports the latest Apple Pencil Pro, adding more functionality for creative professionals who prefer a smaller, more portable device.
Despite the updates, the iPad Mini still occupies a unique space within Apple's lineup, which includes larger models like the iPad Air and the iPad Pro. The company revamped the rest of its iPad series earlier this year, adding the supercharged M4 chip to the Air and redesigning the Pro, but the Mini has followed its own slower update cycle. This latest release is viewed as a necessary refresh to keep the Mini competitive, especially as Apple continues to prioritize AI and performance across its devices.
"The new Mini fits into Apple's broader strategy of infusing AI capabilities into all its products," said McQueen. "It may not have the size of the Pro or Air, but it packs a punch where it counts."
Apple's decision to refresh the Mini also comes as the company sees solid growth in its iPad segment. During its fiscal third quarter, Apple reported a 24% year-over-year growth in its iPad business, buoyed by the release of several new iPads in 2022. With this update, Apple is likely aiming to maintain momentum, particularly among users who value the Mini for its portability. The 8.3-inch screen is a favorite for those who use it for reading, taking notes, or handling tasks on the go.
However, the iPad Mini has historically been something of a niche product within the broader iPad family. Like the iPhone SE, it has a dedicated fanbase that prefers its smaller size, but it doesn't command the same widespread popularity as larger models. Apple seems content to keep the Mini in its lineup, albeit on a different release schedule from its bigger counterparts. "The iPad Mini has always attracted a loyal following of users who value its compact form, but it's not the go-to device for the majority of iPad buyers," said Angela Liu, a technology analyst.
