Apple appears to have a seventh-generation iPad mini in the works, possibly for release later this year, says the leaker known as “ShrimpApplePro.” The leaker says they have seen evidence that a new iPad model is coming, which is likely the seventh-generation iPad mini.
The information came as part of a recent thread of tweets that also included info about the upcoming Apple Watch Series 9 and second-generation Apple Watch Ultra. More about that in another article.
We’ve seen previous comments from Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman who said that an iPad mini update this year with a minor “spec bump” could happen, as well as Apple industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has said he expects to see the seventh-generation iPad mini begin mass production sometime in the first quarter of 2024.
The leaker including a comment about the new iPad mini alongside the above-mentioned Apple Watch info indicates the iPad mini may be released during the same timeframe as the new Apple Watch’s debut which is expected to be in the fall. The leaker added that more details about the matter will be shared a bit later.
A new generation iPad mini will likely sport a processor upgrade. The current iPad mini sports an A15 Bionic chip. The next-generation iPad mini could use Apple’s A16 Bionic or A17 Bionic, which are expected to be used in the upcoming iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro lineups, which are expected to debut in September.
A new iPad mini could also benefit from a minor spec bump to both the front and rear-facing cameras, possibly bringing new camera features to the mini. ProRes video recording, stereo audio recording, Portrait mode, and other features are possible with upgraded cameras.
Apple’s latest iPad Pro lineup boasts improved connectivity features, including Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6E, so those features may also make it into the next-gen iPad mini.
As is usual for reports like this, take it all with a grain of your favorite salt-free seasoning, as nothing is set in stone until Apple unveils the next-generation iPad mini.
