Malcolm Owen
Apple's sixth-generation iPad mini will borrow the design cues of the iPad Air, a report claims, with it also set to include other changes including a magnetic Smart Connector and USB-C.
Apple is rumored to be bringing out an updated form of the iPad mini in the fall, in what has previously been described as a major redesign of the tablet. A report on Tuesday doubles down on many of the rumored changes in the overhaul.
The changes for the model, codenamed "J310" according to sources of 9to5Mac, include the claim Apple will use the A15 system-on-chip in the iPad mini. If true, this will give the iPad mini the same chip and potential processing performance as the "iPhone 13" range.
It's not the only A15 chip on the way, with report sources believing a more powerful "A15X" is in development for other iPad models.
In terms of connectivity, it will apparently lose the Lightning port in favor of USB-C, something which has been previously speculated in earlier leaks. The introduction of a magnetic Smart Connector will also bring the iPad mini in line with the iPad Air and iPad Pro, with Apple apparently planning to introduce compatible accessories for the smaller tablet.
Previous rumors about the iPad mini speculated its specifications as being similar in size to previous models but with a larger 8.4-inch to 9-inch screen, no Home button but retaining Touch ID in the power button, and improved speakers.
Support for the second-generation Apple Pencil has been touted, though there is also speculation that a smaller "Apple Pencil 3" could be on the way.
The report sources also claim there will be a new entry-level iPad on the way, codenamed "J181." The model will apparently gain a spec bump from the A12 to the A13.
Keep up with everything Apple in the weekly AppleInsider Podcast — and get a fast news update from AppleInsider Daily. Just say, "Hey, Siri," to your HomePod mini and ask for these podcasts, and our latest HomeKit Insider episode too. If you want an ad-free main AppleInsider Podcast experience, you can support the AppleInsider podcast by subscribing for $5 per month through Apple's Podcasts app, or via Patreon if you prefer any other podcast player.
Oliver Haslam
Andrew O'Hara
Charles Martin
Wesley Hilliard
Marko Zivkovic
Andrew Orr
14 Comments
My wife has been wanting to replace her old iPad mini 4 for several months now, but I have to tell her to wait until this update happens.
Wonder if the smart connector means a Smart Keyboard for the first time in the mini’s history?
I want one.
Smaller(!) pencil 3?! I would dislike this, pencil 2 feels perfect.