Apple Preorders Open for New $699 OLED iPad Mini

Apple has released its smallest tablet with the largest screen in the product line's history. The company opened preorders on Tuesday for the eighth-generation iPad Mini, which will reach retail shelves on November 6.

The new device features an 8.5-inch OLED display, a first for the Mini lineup. Despite the larger screen, Apple states the tablet is thinner and lighter than the 2024 model. It runs on the new A20 Pro chip, which the company says will power faster performance and new Siri AI features, including customizable voice options.

Hardware upgrades include an IP67 water resistance rating and a 12-megapixel front camera. Apple moved the camera to the long edge of the frame to improve landscape video calls. The system also uses an Acoustic Display that integrates speakers with the screen and frame to increase volume and bass depth.

Connectivity relies on the N1 wireless chip for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread support. Cellular versions include the C2 modem, which Apple claims provides 50 percent faster cellular speeds than the previous generation.

Pricing for the Wi-Fi model with 128GB of storage starts at $699. The 256GB version costs $799, while the 512GB model is $999. The top-tier storage option includes a six-core CPU, whereas lower storage models use a five-core processor. Available colors are black and a creamy white shade.

Preorders are available at Amazon, Walmart, Target, B&H Photo, and Apple. Best Buy includes a $50 e-gift card with each purchase. Cellular models start at $849 for the 128GB version. The 256GB and 512GB cellular options cost $949 and $1,149, respectively.

Apple also offers a glare-reducing nano-texture display for the 256GB and 512GB models. Those configurations start at $899 and $1,099, respectively, for Wi-Fi only. LTE versions of the nano-texture models cost $1,049 and $1,249.