In a nutshell: Apple has introduced a refreshed version of its iPad mini with upgrades at nearly every turn. The mini now features a slightly larger 8.5-inch OLED display sporting 24% thinner bezels, and the option to go with a nano-texture display. The screen additionally features higher contrast and peak brightness than before, and is driven by the new A20 Pro chip.
Apple says the A20 Pro in the new iPad mini offers up to 60% faster multi-threaded workload performance, up to 4.5x faster AI performance, and up to 2.7x faster graphics performance compared to the chip in the last-gen device.
At 5.4mm, the new iPad mini is 14% thinner and 13% lighter than before as well. It also features an IP67 rating against water and dust, thanks in part to its new Acoustic Display system. Apple said specially designed woofers work through the display alongside custom tweeters tucked between the glass and aluminum body, effectively eliminating the need for speaker cutouts.
Elsewhere, the new tablet features Apple's own N1 wireless networking chip, and cellular models get the C2 modem system. All versions ship with iPadOS 27, which includes Siri AI. It is also compatible with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C).
Up front, you'll find a 12-megapixel Center Stage camera along the landscape edge that Apple says is ideal for FaceTime calls. Around back is a 12-megapixel wide-angle lens that can grab 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The cameras don't rival what you'd find on a top of the line iPhone, but you aren't paying nearly as much either.
Speaking of price, the iPad mini starts at $699 for a Wi-Fi only model, or $849 if you want a cellular model. It's being offered in your choice of black or silver colorways with storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB. The nano-texture glass option, available only on 256GB and 512GB models, will set you back an additional $100. Pre-orders open October 28 ahead of general availability on November 6.