New iPad mini unveiled

Apple has announced a new iPad mini through a press release, two days before its second event of October, set for October 28 in Los Angeles. The device features an OLED screen, a first for the iPad mini series, replacing the LCD used in earlier models.

OLED screen improvements

The new iPad mini has an 8.5-inch OLED screen, slightly larger than the 8.3-inch screen of the previous model. Apple claims the new screen has 24% thinner bezels, with a brightness of 600 nits full screen and up to 1,200 nits in HDR peak, more than double the previous generation's performance.

Screen features and limitations

The new iPad mini includes a nano-texture option, previously available only on the iPad Pro. However, the screen is still less advanced than the iPad Pro's Tandem OLED 120 Hz display or the iPhone 18 Pro's OLED 1-120 Hz screen. Apple does not mention ProMotion support, indicating the tablet remains at 60 Hz.

Upgraded chip and design

The iPad mini now uses the A20 Pro chip, manufactured in 2 nm, the same as in the iPhone 18 Pro. The design is thinner at 5.4 mm and includes waterproofing (IP67 rating), a first for an iPad. Apple has also reworked the audio system, using the screen to vibrate for sound and hiding tweeters between the glass and aluminum case.

Camera and connectivity

The 12-megapixel front camera has moved to the horizontal edge, similar to other iPads since 2022, making it more practical for video calls in landscape mode. The iPad mini also includes Apple's new N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, along with the C2 modem for cellular versions.

Pricing and availability

The new iPad mini starts at 759 euros for the 128 GB Wi-Fi version, with prices increasing to 889 euros for 256 GB and 1,139 euros for 512 GB. This represents a 150 euro increase compared to the previous generation. Pre-orders begin on October 28 at 6:10 p.m., with the device launching on November 6.

Apple's product strategy

Apple's release of the new iPad mini aligns with its strategy of frequent product updates under John Ternus's leadership. This includes the Mac mini and Mac Studio with M6 and M5 Ultra chips, the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, AirPods 5, new Apple Watches, HomeView screen, Apple TV, and HomePod mini.

Timing of the release

The iPad mini's release comes three days after the launch of the iPhone Duo, Apple's most innovative smartphone in recent years. It precedes upcoming Mac announcements, continuing the company's pattern of closely spaced product launches.