Apple’s New and Improved iPad mini Is Out Next Week

Order it today, starting at $499

By
Rob Rich
Rob Rich headshot
Rob Rich
News Reporter
  • College for Creative Studies
Rob is a freelance tech reporter with experience writing for a variety of outlets, including IGN, Unwinnable, 148Apps, Gamezebo, Pocket Gamer, Fanbolt, Zam, and more.
lifewire's editorial guidelines
Updated on September 14, 2021 04:25PM EDT
Fact checked by
Rich Scherr
Rich Scherr
Fact checked by Rich Scherr
  • University of Maryland Baltimore County
Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire.
lifewire's fact checking process
Computers

Apple on Tuesday revealed details about its new iPad mini, which releases next week and now can be ordered starting at $499.

The announcement was part of Apple's big event, where the company revealed the new and improved tablet. The new model has been completely redesigned, with a larger 8.3-inch liquid retina display and a thinner frame, but retains the same footprint as the previous model. And, naturally, it ships with iPad OS 15 installed.

iPad Mini price

Apple

Apple claims the new iPad mini will provide up to a 40% jump in CPU performance and up to an 80% jump in GPU output. It also says the neural engine performance will be up to two times as fast as the previous generation. And the new iPad mini supports the second generation Apple Pencil.

Other hardware changes include 5G integration for download speeds up to 3.5GB per second and a USB-C port. A new speaker system will provide better audio, and the TouchID function has been moved to the top button to accommodate the new screen design.

iPad Mini front camera

Apple

The cameras also have been upgraded, with a 12MP back camera with True Tone flash that can record in 4K and a 12MP ultra-wide front camera that supports Center Stage.

If you'd like to get your hands on the newest iPad mini, you can order one later today directly from Apple. Prices start at $499, and it will release sometime "next week," though a specific date hasn't yet been announced.

Was this page helpful?