Apple has quietly rolled out the iPad Mini 7, giving its smallest tablet a serious upgrade with the same A17 Pro chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro. With faster performance, improved cameras, and Apple Pencil Pro support, this pocket-friendly device aims to punch above its weight.
The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display stays, as do the compact dimensions that have earned the Mini a loyal following. This time, it’s available in blue, purple, starlight, and black — subtle, but stylish.
Power Up with A17 Pro
Bringing the A17 Pro chip to the iPad Mini isn’t just a technical tweak — it’s a big leap in capability. With 30% more CPU power and a 25% graphics boost over its predecessor, this compact tablet now supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, making it more than capable of handling games and creative apps on the go. Think of it as an iPhone Pro-level brain, but in tablet form.
On top of that, Apple’s new “Apple Intelligence” integrates neatly into iPadOS 18. It offers on-device smarts like enhanced document scanning and contextual assistance in writing apps, promising convenience without compromising privacy.
Pencil Power: Apple Pencil Pro Joins the Party
Apple has opened the iPad Mini’s doors to its latest Apple Pencil Pro, which brings features like haptic feedback and tool-switching gestures with a simple squeeze. Whether you’re jotting down notes, sketching ideas, or editing on the fly, the combination of Pencil Pro and iPadOS 18 makes the Mini a handy creative tool that fits in your bag — or even your coat pocket.
Fast Connectivity, All-day Battery, and a Camera Boost
Wi-Fi 6E, 5G connectivity, and a faster USB-C port mean the iPad Mini 7 is ready for whatever you throw at it, whether you’re backing up files or streaming on the go. Apple promises all-day battery life, though only time will tell how it holds up during those marathon binge-watching sessions.
The 12MP rear camera now supports Smart HDR 4, meaning your photos will have more detail and depth, even in tricky lighting. Machine learning adds a productivity edge, with faster document detection in the Camera app.
Pricing and Availability in India
The iPad Mini 7 is now available for pre-order in India, starting at Rs 49,900 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model and Rs 64,900 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular variant. Apple’s education pricing brings the starting cost down to Rs 44,900 for students and teachers.
Need more storage? You can opt for 256GB or 512GB models, though prices climb accordingly. Accessories include the Apple Pencil Pro for Rs 12,900, the standard USB-C Apple Pencil at Rs 7,900, and the Smart Folio case for ₹5,900. Deliveries and in-store availability kick off on October 23.
A Small Tablet with Big Ambitions
The iPad Mini has always carved a niche for itself: small, light, and just capable enough to handle day-to-day tasks. With the new A17 Pro chip and Pencil Pro support, Apple is now pushing it further — marketing it as a productivity tool that can game, sketch, and work without breaking a sweat. Mind you, this is the same chipset that powered the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
That said, the Mini’s compact size isn’t for everyone. It’s perfect if you need something ultraportable, but might not cut it for users who prefer larger screens. Still, for those looking for a small tablet that can keep up with them, the iPad Mini 7 offers a neat combination of power and portability.
This update might not spark queues outside Apple Stores, but it’s an intriguing option in a world dominated by big screens. With just enough new features to make you consider a purchase — and that tempting form factor — the iPad Mini 7 offers more than meets the eye.