iPad mini 6 to be powered by A15 chip, feature USB-C connectivity, more – Report

According to a new report, a new iPad mini will arrive later this year with a similar design language to the latest iPad Air. The new tablet, codenamed J310, will be powered by the same A15 processor as iPhone 13, feature a USB-C port and a smart connector like current-gen iPads.

iPad mini 5

Apple planning redesigned iPad mini with A15 processor, USB-C connectivity and Smart Connector

According to 9to5Mac, the upcoming iPad mini will feature the same chip that is expected to debut in the iPhone 13 lineup. The A15 processer will be based on current 5nm manufacturing processes. Sources told 9to5Mac that the tech giant is also working on an A15X processor variant that could be used in future iPads.

The new iPad mini will have a USB-C connector and a magnetic Smart Connector like the iPad Air and the iPad Pro. This will make the tablet more compatible with third-party accessories unlike the current iPad mini, which is restricted to the Lightning connector. Apple could also release Smart Connector-capable accessories for the tablet.

iPad mini USBC-C

As per previous rumors, the upcoming iPad mini 6 could also receive a redesign so that it is more in line with Apple’s current iPad lineup. The redesign could feature a larger display, thinner bezels, rounded corners, Touch ID power button. Just like the iPad Air, iPad mini 6 will not feature a home button but will be controlled using touch gestures.

According to serial leaker John Prosser, Apple might also come out with a smaller Apple Pencil for the tablet. Earlier reports stated that the tablet could come equipped with a 9-inch or 8.7-inch screen.

iPad mini 6 renders

Another exciting bit of information mentioned in the report is that Apple is planning a new version of the entry-level iPad. Codenamed J181, the model will feature an A13 chip in comparison to the current entry-level iPad which is powered by the A12 Bionic Chip. Previous supply chain rumors suggest the entry-level iPad will feature a similar design to iPad Air 3.

As per Prosser, Bloomberg, and Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is expected to announce the new mini tablet in the second half of this year. Possibly alongside the launch of iPhone 13 in the fall.

About the Author

Asma is an editor at iThinkDifferent with a strong focus on social media, Apple news, streaming services, guides, mobile gaming, app reviews, and more. When not blogging, Asma loves to play with her cat, draw, and binge on Netflix shows.

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