Apple is relaunching the iPad mini with a significant performance boost, powered by the A17 Pro chip. The iPad mini 7th Gen is now compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro, and both the base and top-tier models feature double the storage compared to their predecessors.
The new iPad Mini 2024 adopts the same design and most features from the 2021 model but upgrades its processor to the A17 Pro, the same chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro. According to Apple, the A17 Pro delivers a 30% faster CPU and a 25% faster GPU than the previous A15 Bionic. With four times faster ray tracing and dynamic caching, the tablet promises improved gaming performance. It also supports AI features under the “Apple Intelligence” umbrella, which will roll out in Europe next year.
The iPad Mini A17 Pro gains Wi-Fi 6E support and introduces compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, in addition to the standard Apple Pencil with USB-C. Its USB-C port now offers 10 Gbit/s transfer speeds—double that of the previous model. Sustainability efforts are also evident, with the tablet incorporating recycled materials.
The tablet retains its compact form, measuring 6.3 mm thick and weighing 293 grams. It features an 8.3-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,266 x 1,488 pixels, a 60 Hz refresh rate, and 500 nits of brightness. The camera setup includes a 12 MP f/1.8 rear camera and a 12 MP f/2.2 front camera. The device uses Touch ID integrated into the power button for unlocking, with no Face ID option. Its 19.3 Wh battery offers up to 10 hours of usage.
iPad mini 7th Gen price and release date
The iPad mini 7th Gen is available for pre-order from Amazon, B&H Photo, Adorama, and Amazon UK, with shipments starting October 23. Pricing starts at $499 for the 128 GB model, $599 for 256 GB, and $799 for the 512 GB version. An additional $150 is charged for the 5G variant.
