A Closer Look at the 11th Gen iPad and 7th Gen iPad Mini

What to Expect from Apple’s New iPad Models

August 2024

PC Boss

As Apple’s highly anticipated September keynote approaches, all eyes are on the upcoming iPad refreshes. This fall, Apple is expected to unveil two new iPad models: the 11th generation iPad and the 7th generation iPad mini. Both of these models have gone two years without an update, making this a highly anticipated refresh. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of what to expect from these new iPads, how they compare to their predecessors, and what new features they might bring to the table.

iPad (11th Generation): What’s New?

Apple last updated the base model iPad in October 2022, which introduced the most significant redesign since the model’s reintroduction in 2017. The 10th generation iPad brought a flat-sided design, a variety of fun colors, USB-C connectivity, landscape stereo speakers, and a unique landscape selfie camera that enhanced video calls and selfies. It launched at $449 but later saw a price reduction to $349.

The upcoming 11th generation iPad is rumored to focus on cost efficiency, as Apple aims to reduce production costs for this entry-level model. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean a price drop for consumers; rather, Apple may use this to improve its margins. Given that the price was already reduced after Apple’s May 7th event, it’s unlikely that the new iPad will be cheaper than its predecessor.

Possible Chip Upgrade

The 10th generation iPad currently houses the A14 Bionic chip, which is two generations behind the latest A-series chips. Traditionally, Apple’s base model iPads have been two years behind on chipset upgrades, so it’s likely that the 11th generation iPad could feature the A16 Bionic chip. However, with Apple’s recent emphasis on Apple Intelligence and AI-powered features, there’s a possibility that the new iPad could jump to an A17 or even A18 chip, bringing enhanced performance and new capabilities.

iPad Mini (7th Generation): Small but Mighty

The iPad mini, last updated in September 2021, introduced a flat-sided design, USB-C support, and compatibility with Apple Pencil 2. However, it has since fallen behind in terms of features compared to newer iPad models. The 7th generation iPad mini is expected to address this gap with a series of upgrades, including a possible landscape front-facing camera and support for Apple Pencil Pro.

Improved Performance with A18 Chip

One of the most anticipated upgrades for the iPad mini is the potential inclusion of the A18 chip, which would make it the most powerful iPad mini to date. This upgrade would enable Apple Intelligence features like the new Siri, Genmoji, and Image Playground, bringing cutting-edge technology to Apple’s smallest tablet.

Addressing Display Issues

The current iPad mini 6 faced a display issue known as “jelly scrolling,” where one half of the display refreshed faster than the other, leading to an inconsistent scrolling experience. While this issue didn’t affect all users, it was a notable drawback. Rumors suggest that Apple may have fixed this issue with the upcoming iPad mini 7, although this remains unconfirmed.

Storage and Price Expectations

The 7th generation iPad mini is expected to start with 128GB of storage, up from 64GB in the current model. This upgrade aligns with the storage offerings of the iPad Air, making the iPad mini a more appealing option for those needing more space. Despite these upgrades, the starting price is likely to remain at $499, the same as the current model.

Will Stage Manager Expand to New iPads?

Stage Manager, Apple’s advanced windowing system introduced in iPadOS 16, initially required an M1 chip or newer for full functionality. Although Apple later expanded support to A12X and A12Z iPad Pros, other A-series iPads have yet to gain this feature. There’s speculation that Stage Manager could come to the new 11th generation iPad and iPad mini 7, especially if they feature the A16, A17, or A18 chips. This would make the new iPads even more versatile and attractive to users seeking enhanced multitasking capabilities.

Top 10 Q/A about the Upcoming iPads

What are the key upgrades for the 11th generation iPad?

Expected upgrades include a focus on cost efficiency, a possible chipset upgrade to A16 or newer, and continued emphasis on affordability.

Will the 11th generation iPad see a price drop?

Unlikely. Apple may reduce production costs, but the price is expected to remain similar to the current $349 model.

What new features are expected for the iPad mini 7?

Likely upgrades include an A18 chip, support for Apple Pencil Pro, and potentially a landscape front-facing camera.

Will the iPad mini 7 fix the “jelly scrolling” issue?

Rumors suggest that Apple may address this issue in the new model, though this is not yet confirmed.

How much storage will the iPad mini 7 offer?

The base model is expected to start with 128GB of storage, an upgrade from the current 64GB.

Will Stage Manager be available on the new iPads?

There’s a possibility that Stage Manager could come to the new iPads, especially if they feature A16, A17, or A18 chips.

Are there any design changes for the new iPads?

The 11th generation iPad may have minor design tweaks, while the iPad mini 7 is expected to retain its current design with internal upgrades.

What chipset will the 11th generation iPad use?

The A16 Bionic chip is a likely candidate, though an upgrade to A17 or A18 is possible.

Will the iPad mini 7 be more expensive than its predecessor?

The starting price is expected to remain at $499, the same as the current iPad mini 6.

When will the new iPads be available?

The new iPads are expected to be unveiled at Apple’s September 9th keynote, with availability shortly thereafter.

BOSS LEVEL TIP: Future-Proof Your iPad Experience

As Apple continues to push the envelope with new iPad models and features, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. Consider opting for higher storage capacities and newer chipsets to ensure your device remains capable of handling future software updates and new features. Additionally, investing in quality accessories like Apple Pencil Pro and USB-C peripherals can enhance your iPad experience and keep your setup future-proof.