iPad mini hard to come by – Successor on the horizon?
Apple is currently struggling to deliver its outdated compact tablet. This could be an indication that a new version will be released soon.
iPad mini 6 (left): It's time for a new version of the compact tablet.
(Image: Sebastian Trepesch)
Apple may be about to release a new generation of the iPad mini. The current – but very outdated – model is currently not available or only available with a delay in American Apple stores, at least in some configurations. The compact tablet is also described as "constrained" in Apple's internal systems, writes Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman on X, citing informed sources. "This could be a sign that a new model is coming." However, most configurations could still be found in German Apple Stores on Tuesday morning.
Currently not ready for Apple Intelligence
The current 6th generation iPad mini went on sale in September 2021 after not being updated for over two years. Back then, Apple gave the hardware a major overhaul, including a new form factor, a new SoC (A15), a USB-C port and compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2. But nothing has happened since then. The current model is also not ready to run the new Apple Intelligence services. These require at least an M1 chip for Apple tablets.
Gurman goes on to write that he would not be surprised if the compact tablet was updated "for AI". In fact, Apple would probably not have much to do here: The company could give the device either an M1 or the newer A17 Pro from the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, plus improve the wireless infrastructure (with Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E, for example) and possibly tweak the cameras (front and back) – done. On Monday, Apple announced an iPhone event for September 9, which is likely to be explicitly related to Apple Intelligence. In addition to the 16 iPhones, at least new Apple Watch models and new AirPods are expected. Although Apple tends to present iPads in October or spring, the company could well slip a new mini in between.
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Fine mesh before the exit?
Apple also seems to be planning another change: the company may be discontinuing its controversial new material "FineWoven" for iPhone cases. The material is not considered to be very stable, but is nevertheless expensive. The company sees it as an alternative to leather, but one that is significantly more durable.
Currently, there are repeated sales of these products in Germany, with both Deutsche Telekom and Amazon offering larger discounts and various models no longer available in Apple's online store. However, this could also mean that the company is preparing for the next generation of the iPhone 16.
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