Apple Announces New, Faster iPad Mini: A Speedy Upgrade for the AI Era

Apple has just quietly introduced an updated iPad Mini, bringing significant performance enhancements and more storage to its smallest tablet. Starting at ₹41,500, the new iPad Mini is already available for pre-order and will hit stores next Wednesday.

Apple has unveiled its first update to the iPad Mini since 2021, bringing a host of new internal upgrades. Although the design remains largely unchanged, this refresh comes with a more powerful processor, faster connectivity, and increased storage. Starting at ₹41,500 (for the base model with 128GB storage), the new iPad Mini is set to deliver better performance, especially in AI-based applications.

What’s New in the 2024 iPad Mini?

The most significant change is the inclusion of Apple’s new A17 Pro chip, the same processor that powers the latest iPhone models. This A17 Pro chip offers a 30% faster CPU and a 25% faster GPU compared to the previous generation. Additionally, the Neural Engine has been upgraded, promising a two-fold increase in AI processing speeds. This positions the iPad Mini perfectly for users working with AI tools, gaming, or multitasking.

Apple has also bumped up the base storage from 64GB to 128GB, giving users more room to store apps, media, and increasingly storage-hungry AI models.

Apple’s new iPad Mini comes in new color options, including a muted blue. (Image: Apple)

AI and Gaming-Ready Hardware

This new iPad Mini isn’t just about raw speed; it’s also equipped to handle more demanding tasks. With hardware-accelerated ray tracing, the iPad Mini promises better graphics performance in high-end games, providing enhanced lighting and shadows. The faster Wi-Fi 6E chip ensures quicker internet speeds, making it ideal for remote work, streaming, or online gaming. Furthermore, the USB-C port now supports even faster data transfer speeds, enhancing productivity for those who rely on the iPad Mini for creative tasks.

Apple Pencil Pro and Creative Enhancements

For artists, designers, and note-takers, the iPad Mini now supports the Apple Pencil Pro. This upgrade offers a smoother, more precise drawing and writing experience, making the Mini a portable yet powerful creative tool. The combination of a compact form factor and robust new features makes it an appealing choice for creatives who prefer smaller devices without compromising on performance.

Design and Color Changes

While the overall design of the iPad Mini remains the same as the 2021 version, Apple has introduced new color options: a muted purple and blue. While these shades aren’t as vibrant as those seen on the latest iPhones, they do add a fresh, modern look to the iPad Mini lineup.

Who Is the iPad Mini For?

The iPad Mini has always catered to a niche audience. Popular among pilots due to its compact size and efficiency, the Mini has a dedicated fanbase that values its portability. However, its smaller screen means it often plays second fiddle to Apple’s larger iPad models, especially when it comes to media consumption and multitasking.

Apple’s decision to update the iPad Mini with significant internal upgrades, while maintaining the same design, suggests the company is focused on delivering performance improvements for a loyal but smaller audience. With the rest of the iPad lineup receiving updates earlier this year, including the introduction of the M2 chip in the iPad Air, the iPad Mini stands out for those who prioritize portability over screen size.

Final Thoughts: A Compact Powerhouse for the AI Age

With a new A17 Pro chip, increased storage, and AI-focused enhancements, the 2024 iPad Mini is a substantial upgrade for users who value performance in a small package. While the design remains familiar, the internal improvements position the Mini as a compact yet powerful tablet that’s ready for AI applications, gaming, and more. At ₹41,500, it’s priced competitively for a device that offers cutting-edge features in such a portable form factor.