New models of entry-level iPad and iPad Mini by Apple

 Apple might introduce New models of entry-level iPad and iPad Mini

Apple's upcoming 11th generation iPad may feature the A16 Bionic chip and cost-saving measures, while the 7th generation iPad mini is expected to include an A18 chip, Apple Intelligence capabilities, and possibly address the 'jelly scrolling' issue. Last updated in September 2021, the sixth-generation iPad mini is reportedly seeing supplies dwindling at many Apple retail stores, which is a sign that a new model could be coming as soon as September. California based tech giant Apple is reportedly poised to introduce two new iPad models this fall, with expectations high for their debut at the September 9th keynote. The anticipated launches include a refreshed entry-level iPad, now in its 11th generation, alongside the 7th generation of the iPad mini. Both devices have not seen updates in two years, making this refresh particularly noteworthy. Reports suggest that Apple internally considers the device "constrained," which could signal an impending update. The current model is approaching its third year on the market. Apple might refresh its iPad line up at the same event. Rumours suggest updates for the iPad Mini and entry-level iPad, possibly with the latest Apple Silicon. If these updates are confirmed, the current iPad Mini (sixth generation) and iPad (10th generation) could be phased out to make room for the new models.

iPad mini (7th generation)

The 6th generation iPad mini introduced a new flat-edged design, adopted USB-C, and gained compatibility with the Apple Pencil 2. As the oldest model in Apple’s iPad line up, the iPad mini is currently missing several features present in newer models, such as a landscape-oriented front-facing camera and support for the Apple Pencil Pro. It is anticipated that these features will be included in the 7th generation refresh, although Apple may decide to keep the front camera in its current portrait orientation, given the iPad mini's common use in this mode. Support for the Apple Pencil Pro, however, seems a likely addition. The iPad mini is also expected to receive a significant performance boost with the integration of the latest A18 chipset. This upgrade would bring Apple Intelligence capabilities to the iPad mini for the first time, enabling features like the new Siri, Genmoji and Image Playground, though not all features may be available at launch. Rumours have suggested Apple is developing a seventh-generation iPad mini, potentially slated for release soon. This new version is expected to feature an A17 Pro chip or better, enabling support for Apple Intelligence. The device may also receive camera upgrades on both front and rear.

iPad (11th generation)

Apple is concentrating on reducing production costs for the entry-level iPad. It remains uncertain whether these cost-saving measures will translate into a price drop for consumers, or if Apple will simply improve its profit margins. Reportedly, the current 10th generation iPad is powered by the A14 Bionic chip. While it is not yet clear which chipset the 11th generation model will feature, history suggests that it may be upgraded to the A16 Bionic, given Apple’s tendency to lag two years behind in chipset updates for its base model iPads. However, with the possibility of Apple Intelligence integration, Apple could opt to equip the new iPad with a more advanced A17 or A18 chip, potentially altering its usual upgrade pattern. 

In line with recent updates across Apple's product range, the new iPad mini might incorporate Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. These improvements would bring it up to speed with other current Apple devices. It's unclear whether the iPad mini refresh will be included in Apple's "It's Glowtime" event. Moreover, the iPad mini 7 is likely to see an increase in its base storage, starting at 128GB instead of the current 64GB, similar to the latest iPad Air, adds the report. Despite these upgrades, the starting price is expected to remain at $499, matching the current model. One issue that plagued the iPad mini 6 was a display defect known as “jelly scrolling," where some users noticed uneven screen refresh rates, causing a wobbly scrolling effect. While not officially confirmed, rumours suggest that Apple may address this problem in the next generation.

Reportedly, there is also speculation that the upcoming iPads might feature Stage Manager, a multitasking interface introduced in higher-end models. The A16 chip could potentially handle this feature, while the more advanced A17 and A18 chips would undoubtedly support it. Including Stage Manager would make these new iPads a more compelling upgrade for users, although this remains speculative at this stage. With Apple’s “Its Glowtime” event promising an exciting range of new products, these potential discontinuations are part of Apple’s usual strategy of keeping its hardware lineup fresh and updated. Apple might choose to unveil these separately, either at another event later in the fall or through a press release.