Apple Upgrades iPad Mini with A17 Pro Chip, Increased Storage, and Wi-Fi 6E
Apple has unveiled the new iPad mini (2024) with a straightforward press release, marking one of the most minor updates in the iPad’s history. The key enhancement is the addition of the A17 Pro chip, which first appeared in last year’s iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. This new iPad mini replaces the 2021 model and is set to receive Apple Intelligence when iPadOS 18.1 starts rolling out later this month.
In addition to the upgraded A17 Pro chip, the new iPad mini now offers 128GB of base storage, doubling the previous 64GB. Connectivity has also been improved with support for Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a faster USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 2 port. The device now supports the Apple Pencil Pro stylus and introduces a new Blue color option, alongside the existing Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray finishes.
The remaining specifications are unchanged, featuring the same 8.3-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD with a 1,488 x 2,266 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio. The refresh rate remains capped at 60Hz, with Apple reserving its ProMotion 120Hz feature for Pro models. The pair of 12MP cameras are also carried over from the previous generation, but now benefit from the enhanced image signal processor (ISP) of the A17 Pro chip, which adds support for Smart HDR 4.
The iPad mini retains Touch ID for biometric unlocking and app purchases, along with the same 19.3-watt-hour battery, which Apple claims provides up to 10 hours of browsing or video playback over Wi-Fi. The package also includes a 20W USB-C power adapter.
Additionally, Apple is introducing a new Smart Folio case, priced at $59.
The Apple iPad mini (2024) starts at $499/€599/£499 for the 128GB Wi-Fi-only model and $649/€769/£649 for the cellular version. Pre-orders are available starting today, with shipments and open sales beginning on October 23.
