Since its groundbreaking debut in 2010, the iPad has revolutionised how we consume, create, and interact with digital content. Over the years, Apple has expanded its iPad lineup to cater to a diverse range of user needs and preferences. Among these, the iPad Mini has carved out a distinctive niche, striking a balance between compact design and robust performance. With the 2024 iPad Mini, Apple builds on this legacy, equipping the device with enough processing power to excel in an increasingly AI-driven world.

The 7th generation iPad Mini builds on the familiar design of its predecessor, the 6th generation model introduced three years ago, with many core specifications remaining unchanged. It maintains its 6.3mm slim profile and compact dimensions, paired with an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, which is surrounded by slim bezels for a modern, elegant look. The Touch ID sensor, integrated into the power button on the top right corner when held in landscape mode, remains a convenient and secure feature for unlocking the device. At 293 grams for the WiFi-only version, the iPad Mini continues to be lightweight and comfortable to hold, making it an excellent choice for extended use, whether you're reading, sketching, or multitasking on the go.

The real transformation of the 7th-generation iPad Mini lies beneath its familiar design. The most notable upgrade is the introduction of the A17 Pro chip, the same high-performance processor that powered last year’s iPhone 15 Pro. This upgrade catapults the Mini into a new league of performance, enabling it to handle resource-intensive tasks, professional-grade applications, and even hardware-accelerated ray tracing for gaming, delivering a console-like experience right in the palm of your hand.

However, the A17 Pro isn’t just about raw processing power—it’s a leap into the future of AI-driven functionality. Optimised for smarter workflows, this processor ensures the Mini handles the evolving demands of modern apps. Productivity tools now rely heavily on AI for smarter task management and seamless collaboration, while creative apps harness AI to simplify complex photo and video edits. Even entertainment is being redefined, with streaming giants like Netflix incorporating AI.

Another standout addition is support for the Apple Pencil Pro (purchased separately), which significantly enhances the iPad Mini 2024's appeal for both creatives and professionals. With advanced stylus precision, the Apple Pencil Pro unlocks a host of possibilities, transforming it into a portable sketchpad for artists to draw with accuracy, a note-taking assistant that supports seamless handwriting-to-text conversion, and a productivity powerhouse for annotating documents or brainstorming ideas.

The iPad Mini (2024) maintains its appeal as a portable powerhouse, perfectly suited for today’s mobile-first lifestyle. However, with the growing popularity of foldable smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and OnePlus Open, its relevance is often debated. These foldables are increasingly seen as compact productivity devices, offering innovative dual-display setups and extreme portability. Yet, the iPad Mini confidently holds its ground by offering a distinct mix of practicality and performance. Unlike foldables, it features a single uninterrupted display, eliminating the need for careful handling of fragile folding mechanisms. While slightly heavier at 293 grams compared to foldables (which average around 250 grams), its well-balanced design ensures comfort during extended use.

Foldables may excel in portability, but the iPad Mini’s larger, seamless display is more suited for creative workflows like sketching, video editing, and reading. It also delivers a superior experience for streaming and other forms of entertainment. Additionally, its sturdy build is better equipped to handle the realities of everyday life—an area where users must be extra cautious with foldables due to their delicate screens.

The iPad Mini 2024 offers a significant performance boost with its AI-ready chip and support for the Apple Pencil Pro, redefining what a compact tablet can do. Starting at ₹49,900, it provides a seamless experience for everyday productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Even for 6th-gen users, these enhancements make a compelling case for an upgrade, especially for those who want to future-proof their device with AI capabilities.