Apple’s new iPad mini brings faster memory, updated AI hardware and a redesigned front-camera position, but the available configurations are not identical. The 512GB model includes a dual 16-core Neural Engine and a six-core CPU, while the 128GB and 256GB versions use a single 16-core NPU and five-core CPUs. Pricing starts at $699, and pre-orders open October 28 ahead of the tablet’s November 6 release.
Different iPad mini configurations have different processors
Faster memory can benefit on-device AI applications, but the Neural Engine is the more important component for those workloads. Apple says the 512GB iPad mini will include the dual 16-core Neural Engine used in the iPhone 18 Pro.
The 128GB and 256GB models will instead feature a single 16-core NPU. Their CPU configuration is also slightly different, with five cores rather than the six cores included in the 512GB version.
Front camera moves to the tablet’s long edge
Apple continues to use 12-megapixel cameras on both the front and back of the tablet, but the front camera has moved. It is now positioned on the long side of the iPad mini, making it better suited to horizontal video calls.
For vertical FaceTime calls, however, the change may take some adjustment for people who regularly use an iPad as a video-call device.
Pricing and availability
The entry-level iPad mini costs $699 with 128GB of storage and Wi-Fi connectivity. The 256GB model costs an additional $100, while the 512GB version costs $300 more than the base model.
A nano-texture display is available for an extra $100, although that option is limited to the 256GB and 512GB configurations. Cellular connectivity raises the price of the 128GB model to $849.
The 2026 pricing represents another increase for Apple. The seventh-generation iPad mini launched in 2024 at $499, although its price later rose to $599. The new model costs $100 more than that current price while adding several hardware upgrades.
Pre-orders for the new iPad mini will begin Wednesday, October 28, at 10:10 a.m. PT. The devices are scheduled to arrive at customers’ homes and stores on November 6.
Source: arstechnica.com