APPLE has unveiled its latest iteration of the iPad mini, now featuring the new A17 Pro chip and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. This release marks a significant step forward in terms of performance, connectivity, and creative capabilities.
Enhanced performance
At the core of the new iPad mini is the A17 Pro chip, a notable upgrade from the A15 Bionic chip found in the previous model.
According to Apple, the A17 Pro is designed to offer improved performance, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from everyday use to more demanding professional applications. With a 6-core CPU, including two high-performance cores and four efficiency cores, the new iPad mini sees a 30% boost in CPU performance. Graphics performance is also enhanced, with a 5-core GPU offering a 25 per cent improvement over the previous generation.
The new chip also allows the iPad mini to handle complex tasks more efficiently, such as running pro apps used by designers, medical professionals, and other specialised fields. It also supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enabling more realistic graphics in games and immersive augmented reality (AR) applications. For users in creative fields, the iPad mini's increased processing power will make tasks like photo editing and content creation more seamless.
Improved connectivity
The new iPad mini now supports Wi-Fi 6E, which provides faster internet speeds and more reliable connections. For those using the Wi-Fi + Cellular models, 5G capabilities ensure that users can stay connected even while on the move. The inclusion of eSIM technology offers a more secure and flexible alternative to traditional SIM cards, allowing users to quickly switch between plans without needing a physical card.
Its USB-C port has also received an upgrade, now offering data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps, which is double the speed of the previous generation. This makes it easier for users to transfer large files, such as high-resolution photos and videos, without long wait times.
Camera enhancements
In terms of photography and video, the new iPad mini is equipped with a 12MP wide back camera that delivers detailed and vivid images. The Smart HDR 4 feature enhances dynamic range, resulting in more natural-looking photos. The front-facing 12MP Ultra Wide camera, positioned in portrait orientation, supports Centre Stage, which automatically adjusts the camera during video calls to keep the user in the frame, even if they move around.
Additionally, the iPad mini's camera system uses machine learning to detect and scan documents directly within the Camera app. This feature, combined with the True Tone flash, ensures that scanned documents are clear and shadow-free, making it useful for professionals who need to digitise documents quickly and efficiently.
Creative potential
The introduction of Apple Pencil Pro brings new levels of precision and creativity to the iPad mini. The Pencil Pro is sensitive to pressure, allowing users to switch between tools, adjust line weights, and choose colours without interrupting their workflow. A haptic engine provides feedback, ensuring a more tactile and intuitive experience. Users can rotate the barrel of the Pencil Pro to change the orientation of tools, mimicking the feel of working with traditional pen and paper.
For artists, designers, and note-takers, the Apple Pencil Pro opens up a wide range of possibilities, from sketching and annotating to more intricate design work. The iPad mini also supports the USB-C version of the original Apple Pencil, offering a more affordable option for those who do not need the advanced features of the Pro model.
Intelligent features
The new iPad mini comes with iPadOS 18, which introduces several intelligent features aimed at improving productivity and user experience. One of the key features is the integration of AI-driven tools that allow users to refine and manipulate text across various apps, such as Mail and Notes. The operating system also includes a redesigned Calculator app, which supports Apple Pencil for solving expressions and conducting unit conversions.
It also introduces improvements in handwritten notes, with Smart Script enabling users to edit handwritten text more fluidly. Audio recording and transcription have been enhanced, with the ability to search through transcripts to find specific moments in recordings. This feature will be especially useful for students and professionals who need to review lectures or meetings.
The new Control Centre in iPadOS 18 allows for greater customisation, letting users organise their most-used apps and functions for easier access. The Photos app has also been redesigned, with new tools for browsing and organising images, making it easier for users to find specific photos based on themes.
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