Apple announced a new version of the iPad mini on Tuesday, marking its first significant update since 2021. The updated device is powered by the A17 Pro chip, which introduces compatibility with Apple Intelligence, the company’s new generative AI platform.
The A17 Pro chip, which first debuted in the iPhone 15 Pro, features a six-core CPU with two performance cores and four efficiency cores, along with a five-core GPU. This upgrade promises notable performance improvements over the A16 Bionic chip used in the previous model. A key highlight is the enhanced neural engine, which provides access to Apple Intelligence through the upcoming iPadOS 18.
The new iPad mini includes a suite of features aimed at enhancing user experience, including writing tools and a revamped Siri. However, Apple Intelligence remains a work in progress, with additional features like Image Playground graphic generation and ChatGPT integration still in development.
With this update, Apple Intelligence is now available across the iPad lineup, excluding the base model. Notably, the iPad mini is the only device in the series equipped with a mobile chip, while the latest base iPad and iPad Pro utilize the M4 chip, and the iPad Air operates on the older M2.
In addition, the iPad mini will feature a new Calculator app that responds to handwritten notes. It remains compatible with Apple Pencil and Pencil Pro, providing enhanced functionality for artists and note-takers.
The updated device boasts a rear-facing 12-megapixel wide-angle camera with Smart HDR 4 for improved lighting in photos. Unlike the Pro model, the mini retains the Touch ID functionality integrated into the power button instead of transitioning to Face ID.
The new iPad mini starts at $499 for 128GB of storage, double the storage of its predecessor. The model with cellular connectivity begins at $649. Preorders are open now, with shipping set to commence on October 23.
