15-10-2024 (CUPERTINO) Apple has taken a significant leap forward in the artificial intelligence arena with the launch of its latest iPad mini, a device that promises to bring cutting-edge AI capabilities to the palm of users’ hands. The announcement, made on Tuesday at Apple’s Cupertino headquarters, marks a pivotal moment in the tech giant’s strategy to integrate AI across its product line.
The new iPad mini, powered by the formidable A17 Pro chip—the same processor found in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models—boasts a six-core central processing unit that Apple claims will deliver a 30% boost in CPU performance compared to its predecessor. This chip is the cornerstone of Apple Intelligence, the company’s proprietary AI software suite.
In a move that signals Apple’s commitment to AI integration, the company announced that the initial set of AI features would be rolled out to U.S. users through a software update, iPadOS 18.1, later this month. These features will be available on iPads equipped with A17 Pro or M1 chips and newer, setting a new benchmark for AI capabilities in tablet devices.
Apple’s AI roadmap extends beyond this initial release, with plans to introduce more advanced features in the coming months. These include image-generation tools, a feature called Genmoji, and ChatGPT-powered capabilities, positioning the iPad mini as a versatile AI-driven device for both creative and productivity tasks.
The launch comes at a crucial time for Apple, following the September unveiling of its AI-enhanced iPhone 16 lineup. While that announcement received a mixed response from investors and raised questions about demand, industry analysts remain optimistic. Research firm Canalys recently reported that the iPhone 16 is expected to bolster Apple’s sales in the fourth quarter and maintain momentum into the first half of 2025.
The new iPad mini, with a starting price of $499, is now available for pre-order, with devices set to reach customers and Apple stores next week. This competitive pricing strategy suggests Apple’s intent to make AI-powered technology accessible to a broader consumer base.
