Apple iPad Mini: Apple has officially launched the new iPad Mini (2024), marking a significant upgrade in its tablet lineup. Available globally, including in the USA, this latest version of the compact tablet offers a host of enhancements designed to appeal to both casual users and professionals. With prices starting at $500 for the base Wi-Fi model and $650 for the Wi-Fi+Cellular option, the iPad Mini (2024) is positioned as a versatile, powerful device that packs a punch in a small package.
Upgrades: Apple A17 Pro and More
The standout feature of the new iPad Mini (2024) is the inclusion of the Apple A17 Pro chipset, the same powerful chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro series. This upgrade brings a 30% improvement in CPU performance and a 25% boost in graphics, making it ideal for tasks ranging from gaming to productivity apps. Additionally, the iPad Mini now comes with 8GB of RAM, which allows for smoother multitasking and overall performance improvements compared to its predecessor.
Another major feature that will soon arrive is Apple Intelligence, which is expected to roll out later this month via a software update (iPadOS 18.1). This AI-powered functionality will bring enhanced capabilities, but initially, it will only be available in US English, making it exclusive to users in the United States for the time being.
Storage and Connectivity
The new iPad Mini doubles the base storage, starting at 128GB, and offers additional options for 256GB and 512GB. With the increasing demand for more space, these upgrades are a welcome change for those who use their devices for storing media, apps, and documents.
Connectivity also sees significant improvements, with the device supporting Wi-Fi 6E for faster internet speeds and the USB-C port upgraded to 3.2 Gen 2, which allows data transfers at up to 10Gbps — double the speed of the previous model. These upgrades cater to users who need faster connectivity for work, file transfers, or streaming.
Design and Display: Sleek Yet Familiar
While the internal hardware has received major upgrades, the design remains largely unchanged from the previous model. The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with 2266×1488 resolution and 326 pixels per inch continues to offer sharp, vibrant visuals. The front-facing 12MP camera supports Center Stage, making it ideal for video calls, while the 12MP rear camera now comes equipped with Smart HDR 4, ensuring high-quality photos and videos.
Pricing and Availability
Starting today, the iPad Mini (2024) is available for purchase globally through Apple’s official website and authorized retailers. The device is available in various colors, including the new blue and purple options, with prices starting at $500 for the Wi-Fi model and $650 for the Wi-Fi+Cellular version. For those looking for more storage, the iPad Mini comes in 256GB and 512GB variants, which offer more flexibility for users with greater data needs.
