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Apple could refresh the regular iPad and bring back the Mini model
Apple iPhone 16 launch event on September 9 is shaping up to be a device bonanza with the new Apple Watch models and AirPods expected to be announced.
Apple is reportedly planning to launch two new versions of the iPad during its upcoming Glowtime event on September 9. According to a report by 9To5Mac, the expected launch includes a new entry-level 11th-generation iPad model, as well as the 7th-generation iPad mini. Both the models have not seen any upgrades in the last two years.
The report, citing Mark Gurman, suggests the Cupertino-based giant is concentrating on reducing production costs for the entry-level iPad models. However, it is unclear whether these cost-cutting tactics would result in a price drop for customers or if Apple will just increase its profit margins.
Apple last updated the iPad in October 2022, which marked the most significant change in the base model iPad since its reintroduction in 2017. It was also the first iPad to include a landscape selfie camera, a feature that wouldn’t added to subsequent iPads for another year and a half.
The iPad 10th Generation was powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic Chip. However, it is still not clear which chipset the company will install in the upcoming iPad and iPad Mini. As the base model has lagged for two years, the company may introduce the new device with the A16 Bionic chip.
The iPad Mini received its last upgrade back in 2021, which also marked the largest change since its launch in 2012. The iPad Mini 6th generation device featured a flat-sided design, a USB-C type port and added support for Apple Pencil 2.
The device lacks several features such as a landscape front-facing camera and Apple Pencil Pro support. It is anticipated that the new 7th Gen iPad Mini will come with both of these features.
Additionally, it is also expected to receive a significant performance boost with the integration of the latest A18 chipset.
The report also suggested the iPad Mini 7th Gen is likely to see an upgrade in its storage, with the new model starting with 128 GB instead of the previous 64 GB variant. However, the confirmation regarding the launch of the new iPad models is still awaited.
The tech giant will be introducing the much-awaited iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro Max on September 9 where we could also see the new Apple Watch models.
