Apple has unveiled its latest iteration of the iPad mini, now equipped with the powerful A17 Pro chip, originally featured in the iPhone 15 Pro models. This new device is designed to fully leverage Apple’s advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, collectively referred to as Apple Intelligence. Priced starting at ₹49,900, the iPad mini is currently available for pre-order in India, with general availability set to commence on October 23, 2024.
iPad Mini: India pricing and variants
The new iPad mini is available in several configurations:
- 128GB (Wi-Fi): ₹49,900
- 128GB (Wi-Fi + Cellular): ₹64,900
- 256GB (Wi-Fi): ₹59,900
- 256GB (Wi-Fi + Cellular): ₹74,900
- 512GB (Wi-Fi): ₹79,900
- 512GB (Wi-Fi + Cellular): ₹94,900
The iPad mini is offered in four attractive colors: Space Grey, Blue, Purple, and Starlight.
Pre-order offers
Customers who choose to pre-order the new iPad mini can take advantage of several enticing offers. An instant cashback of ₹3,000 is available on select bank cards from American Express, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank. Furthermore, Apple is providing a no-interest equated monthly installment (No-Cost EMI) plan for up to 12 months, making it easier for customers to finance their purchase. Additionally, all pre-order customers will receive a complimentary three-month subscription to Apple TV+ and Apple Arcade.
iPad mini: Key features
The new iPad mini harnesses the capabilities of the A17 Pro chip, primed for Apple Intelligence, which will start rolling out with iPadOS 18.1 later this month. Apple Intelligence is designed to be deeply integrated into the operating system, providing tools for generating language and images, executing actions across different apps, and utilizing personal context to streamline everyday tasks. This innovative feature utilizes a hybrid model, processing many AI tasks directly on the device while leveraging Apple’s Private Cloud Compute for more demanding tasks.
To facilitate on-device AI processing, the A17 Pro chip includes a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that offers a remarkable 2x increase in processing speed compared to its predecessor. Moreover, the A17 Pro boasts a 30% improvement in CPU performance and a 25% boost in GPU performance over the last generation iPad mini. The dedicated GPU also enhances gaming experiences with advanced features such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which dramatically improves the graphics in AAA gaming titles.
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Display and camera
The iPad mini features an impressive 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, providing vibrant colors and clarity. It now supports the Apple Pencil Pro, offering artists and note-takers an enhanced experience. For photography, the iPad mini is equipped with a 12MP wide camera on the back that supports Smart HDR 4, delivering lifelike colors and improved dynamic range. The camera also utilizes machine learning to auto-detect documents, enabling users to scan them directly from the Camera app. The front-facing camera is a 12MP ultra-wide lens, designed to work seamlessly with the Center Stage feature, keeping users in focus during video calls.
Connectivity and port
Connectivity options on the iPad mini have also been upgraded. All models now support Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring faster and more reliable internet connections. The cellular variants include 5G eSIM support, enabling users to stay connected on the go. Additionally, the USB-C port has been enhanced for faster data transfer, reportedly achieving 2x the speed of the previous generation.
With its powerful A17 Pro chip and a suite of advanced features, the new iPad mini positions itself as a formidable device for both productivity and entertainment. Its combination of enhanced performance, improved connectivity, and robust AI capabilities makes it an attractive option for users looking for a compact yet powerful tablet. As the launch date approaches, potential buyers are encouraged to consider pre-ordering to take advantage of the ongoing offers and secure their new device in time for the release.
