Apple Unveils iPad mini 8 With OLED Display, A20 Pro Chip, and IP67 Rating

Major Hardware Overhaul

Apple has officially introduced the eighth-generation iPad mini, marking the most significant update to the device's history. The new tablet replaces the previous LCD screen with an 8.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, an expansion made possible by reducing bezels by 24 percent while maintaining the device's compact form factor. This larger screen delivers a 2 million:1 contrast ratio and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits for HDR content, double the maximum brightness of the prior generation. The display also supports a minimum brightness of 1 nit, enhancing usability in low-light environments, and offers an optional nano-texture finish for the 256GB and 512GB models to reduce glare in bright conditions.

Performance and Chip Variations

Under the hood, the iPad mini is powered by the A20 Pro system-on-a-chip, which Apple highlights for its AI capabilities and Neural Accelerators. However, Apple has implemented a tiered configuration for the processor that affects performance across storage options. The 512GB model features a 6-core CPU with two super cores and four efficiency cores, paired with a Dual 16-core Neural Engine. In contrast, the 128GB and 256GB models utilize a binned version of the chip with a 5-core CPU (two super, three efficiency) and a single 16-core Neural Engine. All models share a 7-core GPU with hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This distinction means that the majority of configurations sacrifice a CPU core and half the neural processing power compared to the top-tier storage option.

Design and Audio Innovations

The physical design of the new iPad mini is notably slimmer, measuring 5.4mm in thickness and weighing 255 grams, a reduction from the 6.3mm and 297 grams of the previous model. Apple has also introduced an IP67 rating, making it the first iPad to offer water and dust resistance, tested for immersion up to one meter for 30 minutes. This durability is supported by a new "Acoustic Display" audio system that eliminates traditional speaker grilles. The system uses specially designed woofers integrated through the display and tweeters hidden between the glass and aluminum enclosure, creating a sealed environment that improves bass response and volume while aiding in water resistance.

Camera and Connectivity Updates

Apple has relocated the 12-megapixel Center Stage front camera from the portrait edge to the landscape edge, providing a more natural framing for video calls when the device is held horizontally. Connectivity has been upgraded with the inclusion of Apple's N1 wireless chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6. Cellular models feature the C2 modem for faster data speeds. The device also supports fast charging, capable of reaching 50 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes with a 35W or higher adapter, though such adapters are sold separately for $59. The box includes a 20W USB-C power adapter.

Pricing and Availability

The new iPad mini starts at $699 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model and $849 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version. The nano-texture display is a $100 upgrade available only on the 256GB and 512GB models. Apple has reduced the color options to two finishes: Midnight and Starlight, dropping the Blue and Purple options from previous generations. A new TechWoven Smart Folio is available for $79, replacing the previous polyurethane design. Pre-orders begin on Wednesday, October 28, at 10:10 a.m. Pacific Time, with general availability starting on Friday, November 6. This launch precedes Apple's "Pro and Tell" event scheduled for October 28, where additional products, including M6-powered Macs, are expected to be announced.

Key takeaways

• Apple released the iPad mini 8 with an 8.5-inch OLED display and A20 Pro chip.
• The device features IP67 water resistance and a thinner 5.4mm design.
• The 512GB model has a 6-core CPU, while lower models have a 5-core CPU.
• Pre-orders start October 28 with a November 6 release date.
• The tablet lacks ProMotion and is available in Midnight and Starlight.
• Pricing begins at $699 for the base Wi-Fi model.