Apple Set to Unveil New iPad Models: iPad 11, iPad Mini 7, and iPad Air 6
According to recent rumors, Apple is expected to unveil brand new iPad models this week, with specs upgrades for all models except the iPad Pro lines. For those in the market for an iPad, the iPad mini 7 might be the best choice.
During the iPhone 15 event last month, Apple announced the A17 Pro chip, sparking speculations about its potential use in the upcoming iPad mini 7. However, it is more likely that the iPad mini 7 will be powered by the A16 Bionic, which is currently used in the iPhone 14 Pro models.
A new leak from a reliable source on Weibo, known as Instant Digital, suggests that the A16 chip will indeed be used in the 2023 iPad mini generation. Instant Digital has previously provided accurate information about the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series.
The leak also mentions that the iPad mini 7 will address the “jelly scrolling” issue that some iPad mini 6 owners have experienced. Apple has stated that this issue is a non-issue caused by normal LCD screen behavior during line-by-line refresh. The fix is expected to involve rotating the screen assembly, although it remains to be seen if it will introduce similar issues in landscape mode.
Instant Digital has shared details about three other upgrades coming to the iPad mini 7. The most significant upgrade is the A16 Bionic chip, which will offer a 10% increase in speed and a 50% improvement in GPU performance compared to the A15 chip in the iPad mini 6. These improvements, along with enhanced efficiency, make the iPad mini 7 a compelling choice for potential buyers.
However, it remains to be seen what chip upgrade the entry-level iPad 11 will receive. Considering the iPad mini starts at $499, it is hoped that the price for the 7th-gen model will remain the same.
The cost of the A17 Pro chip is likely a deterrent for its integration into the iPad mini 7, as it is estimated to be 27% more expensive than the A16 Bionic. Additionally, Apple may prioritize the supply of A17 Pro chips for the iPhone 15 Pro models.
As someone who has been using the iPhone 14 Pro for over a year, the A16 Bionic chip has proven to be reliable and powerful. Therefore, it is expected to deliver a similarly fast experience on the iPad mini 7.
The leak also mentions two other upgrades for the iPad mini 7. Firstly, it will feature a new camera system, although specific camera specifications have not been leaked. Secondly, Apple will offer new color options for the iPad mini 7, although the exact colors have not been revealed. Currently, the iPad mini 6 is available in Space Gray, Starlight, Pink, and Purple.
While there is no indication of an increase in storage capacity, it is worth noting that the current iPad mini only offers 64GB of flash memory.