As expected, the new iPad mini Apple just announced is more of a small refresh than a major overhaul. Sure, it’s been three years since the last update, but that 2021 model was the first to ditch the home button for smaller bezels, so it’s no surprise Apple didn’t go for another redesign so soon. While the outside looks pretty much the same, the real improvements are under the hood with some solid (but maybe not necessarily exciting) internal upgrades.
What’s new with the 2024 iPad mini? It’s all about more storage, support for the Apple Pencil Pro, and most importantly, a big performance boost with the A17 Pro chip. This chip is key because it allows the iPad mini to use Apple Intelligence features launching soon. Apple clearly wants as many people as possible using these features, and now all iPads (except the entry-level model) will support them. While it’s hard to fully evaluate the mini before Apple Intelligence rolls out, it’s still clear that this update is a solid and necessary refresh to the best small tablet around, delivering the full iPad experience in a super compact package.
What’s the same?
The iPad mini 7 may come with some exciting upgrades, but Apple has kept many of the core elements that fans of the smaller tablet love. For those who appreciate the consistency of Apple’s design and functionality, here’s what has stayed the same with the new iPad mini compared to previous models.
1. Familiar Compact Design
The iPad mini 7 retains the same beloved 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display that was introduced with the iPad mini 6. It still offers the same compact, lightweight form factor that makes it perfect for reading, taking notes, or carrying around on the go. Apple has maintained the sleek, minimalist design that has defined the mini for years—small enough to fit in one hand, yet powerful enough for everyday tasks.
2. Touch ID Integration
Like the previous iPad mini 6, the iPad mini 7 sticks with Touch ID integrated into the power button at the top. While Apple’s flagship devices have shifted toward Face ID, Touch ID remains a staple on the mini, offering a quick and secure way to unlock the device and make payments with Apple Pay. For users who prefer this biometric security method, it’s a familiar and trusted feature.
3. USB-C Port
The new iPad mini 7 continues to use a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, just like its predecessor. This port allows for faster charging and data speeds, while also making the iPad mini compatible with a wide range of accessories, from external drives to displays. The switch to USB-C in the mini lineup has been a big win for users who appreciate the flexibility and universality of the connection.
4. Support for Apple Pencil (2nd Gen)
The iPad mini 7 remains compatible with the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, just like the iPad mini 6. This means you can still use the same stylus for note-taking, drawing, or navigating the device with ease. The Apple Pencil 2 snaps magnetically to the side of the mini for convenient storage and charging, making it a versatile tool for creatives and professionals.
5. iPadOS Experience
The core software experience with iPadOS remains largely unchanged between the new iPad mini 7 and its predecessors. Whether you’re running multitasking apps, using Split View, or enjoying Apple’s growing library of apps and games, the iPad mini 7 continues to offer the same smooth and intuitive iPadOS experience that users have come to expect. This software consistency is key for users who rely on the mini for productivity, entertainment, or creative work.
6. Cameras and Audio
While the iPad mini 7 may come with some internal tweaks, the cameras and audio setup are pretty much the same as the previous model. It still features a 12MP rear camera for solid photos and 4K video recording, and a 12MP front-facing Ultra-Wide camera for FaceTime calls and selfies. The stereo speakers are also unchanged, providing a good audio experience whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or joining a video conference.
What’s new?
There are some exciting new features packed inside this tiny tablet. First up, the biggest change: the A17 Pro chip. This is the same chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro, and it’s a serious upgrade over the older A15. Apple says it’s 30% faster, and the GPU is 25% quicker too, bringing hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which sounds fancy but basically means your games and apps will look sharper and run smoother. Sure, it’s slightly less powerful than the chip in the iPhone 15 Pro, but honestly, you probably won’t notice. This little powerhouse is more than capable for anything you’ll throw at it, whether that’s multitasking, photo editing, or a casual gaming session.
Another major win for the iPad mini 7 is support for the Apple Pencil Pro. Previously, you couldn’t use this more advanced stylus with the mini, but now, creatives can enjoy the pressure sensitivity, haptic feedback, and even the double-tap tool switching that makes the Pencil Pro so special. Snap it to the side of the mini for magnetic charging, and you’re good to go. This combo turns the mini into an awesome portable digital sketchbook or note-taking device. Oh, and speaking of storage—Apple finally bumped up the base model to 128GB (yay!), and there’s also a 512GB option if you need more room.
Connectivity? Covered. The new iPad mini supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster and more stable wireless connections, plus you can add 5G for those who need on-the-go internet. And let’s not forget the display—it’s still the same compact 8.3-inch Liquid Retina screen we know and love, but with these internal upgrades, the mini is now more future-proof and ready to handle Apple’s upcoming Apple Intelligence features.
So, while the design might not have changed, the internals have definitely had a glow-up, making the iPad mini 7 an excellent choice for anyone wanting a small but mighty tablet that doesn’t compromise on performance. The new iPad mini is one of those classic Apple updates—focused on boosting internal hardware rather than a flashy redesign. And that’s totally fine! If you already own last year’s model, there’s no need to rush for an upgrade unless you’re all about Apple Intelligence. But if you’ve got an older iPad mini with a home button, this update is worth it. The A17 Pro chip makes it super fast, and with Apple Pencil Pro support, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a portable sketchbook. Sure, a better display with smaller bezels would’ve been nice, but at $499, it’s still a great little tablet for anyone who wants a lightweight, powerful companion to carry around everywhere.
