Apple surprises with new iPad Mini after three years

In a surprise announcement, Apple revealed a new iPad Mini — the first update to the company's smallest tablet since 2021. The new model starts at $499, is available for pre-order now, and will hit stores in the U.S. next Wednesday. The launch date in Israel is yet to be announced.

The major upgrade in this new model is the improved technical specifications. It runs on Apple's new A17 Pro chip, which the company claims provides a 30% faster processor, 25% faster graphics, and a neural engine that is twice as fast compared to the previous model. Additionally, the new chip will support Apple's AI model, Apple Intelligence, which will arrive in the iOS 18.1 update, initially in the U.S.

The device also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro, which will likely excite artists who use the iPad Mini. The base storage has been increased from 64GB to 128GB. The Wi-Fi 6E chip is faster, and the USB-C connection is also quicker — in short, everything that was in the previous iPad Mini is now faster.

In terms of photography, the rear camera features a 12-megapixel sensor, delivering stunning photo quality, along with Smart HDR 4 support for natural images with enhanced dynamic range. As for design, the device still features an 8.3-inch display, with the only real design change being the addition of new colors. Apple has introduced a range of new colors for its products this year, and the iPad Mini is now available in new purple and blue models.

So far, the iPad has always been a bit of an oddity in Apple's tablet lineup, much like the iPhone SE. It has its dedicated fans who appreciate the smaller size, but Apple has always hinted that there aren’t many of them.