Apple has just announced that it’s given the iPad Mini a major update for 2021. Read on to discover everything new coming to Apple’s most compact tablet.
It’s been over two years since the iPad Mini last got an update but that all changed today with the launch of the iPad Mini 6 at Apple’s September 14 launch event.
Here’s everything you need to know about the brand new iPad Mini, including the price, release date and the new specs.
iPad Mini 6 release date and price – When will the tablet be available?
- The iPad Mini 6 is available to order from September 14
Apple announced the iPad Mini 6 at its launch event on September 14 and you can order it right now, with it officially available from next week.
Unfortunately, it looks as though Apple has increased the price of the tablet for 2021. Prices for the iPad Mini 6 start at £479/$499 and the tablet is available in Wi-Fi and cellular configurations. The previous Mini cost £399/$399, meaning you’ll need to pay $100 more for the new model.
This year, pricing will differ depending on which model you choose, with storage and cellular connection being the main variables.
You can get the 64GB iPad for £497, with that jumping to £619 when adding cellular configurations. If you want more storage, you can get the 256GB variation, which starts at £3619 and jumps to £759 with cellular.
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iPad Mini 6 screen – A larger display
- The iPad Mini 6 has a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display
We expected the iPad Mini to get a bigger screen and we weren’t disappointed, with the Liquid Retina display growing from 7.9-inches to 8.3-inches in this generation.
That’s all without increasing the size of the tablet and ruining one of the best qualities about this tablet – its compact design.
iPad Mini 6 design and size – A “complete redesign”
- According to Apple, the iPad Mini has been given a “complete redesign” this year
- Touch ID, a USB-C port and a stereo speaker system
- Four new colours
- New Smart Folios and 2nd Gen Apple Pencil support
As we explained above, the iPad Mini features a larger display with the same small build, but that doesn’t mean it’s short on design updates.
This time, the iPad Mini takes advantage of Touch ID, as well as a USB-C port for up to 10% faster data transfers when you’re on the go, and the ability to connect to various USB-C supported accessories.
There’s a new speaker system too that can play audio in stereo when the tablet is held in landscape.
The iPad Mini will be available in four new colours – Purple, Pink, Space Gray and a uniquely-named Starlight shade. It also includes a 100% recycled aluminium enclosure, meaning all Apple tablets now feature the more sustainable enclosure.
As far as accessories go, Apple has revealed its Smart Folio covers in four new colours and the tablet is now compatible with the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil.
iPad Mini 6 specs and features – Faster performance, 5G and new cameras
- A faster chip
- 5G support
- New front and back cameras
- An all-day battery life
The new iPad Mini takes advantage of a new processor for 40% faster CPU performance and 80% faster GPU speeds.
The tablet also features 5G now, meaning the cellular version will support the latest generation of connectivity.
As far as the camera is concerned, the Mini packs a new 12-megapixel rear camera with a larger f/1.8 aperture, Two Tone flash and support for Focus Pixels. The tablet will also enhance your photos with Smart HDR and can capture high resolution 4K videos.
The front camera has also been given a boost with the new 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera unveiled on the iPad 9. This also includes support for Center Stage, which works to keep you in frame when you move around the room.
Finally, the iPad Mini 6 also includes an all-day battery life and works with a 20W USB-C power adapter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
