After Apple announced updates to the iPad Air and iPad Pro last May, many were wondering if the iPad Mini will get updates as well–as it was still the same model since 2021. Foldable rumors aside, Apple finally gave a 2024 update to the iPad Mini, and it’s more than just a spec bump.
Outside of updated color options, the 2024 iPad Mini is getting support for Apple Intelligence thanks to its use of an A17 Pro chip–the same one used on the iPhone 15 Pro series. The newer chip allow for WiFi 6E support, a faster USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port, and support for Apple Pencil Pro. Base storage is also upgraded to 128GB, and a new Blue color joins the lineup.
Aside from support for Apple Intelligence, the processor upgrade makes the 2024 iPad Mini a solid compact tablet for gaming, with Apple’s official press release showcasing it running Zenless Zone Zero. The cameras may have the same hardware, but the chip upgrade gets support for Smart HDR 4, so Apple claims better images and videos taken using the new iPad Mini. Like the 2021 version, you still get an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, with symmetrical bezels, TouchID button embedded on the power button, and landscape-oriented stereo speakers.
The 2024 iPad Mini starts at Php 34,990 for the WiFi-only 128GB variant.
