The timing of the new release has taken many by surprise. Apple’s smallest iPad has a faster processor, more storage and support for Apple Intelligence.

The new iPad Mini packs more power and storage — as well as a slew of Apple Intelligence features — into the same great ultra-portable design.

Apple quietly released an updated version of the pilot-favorite iPad Mini this week. If you’re like us, you ran down the spec sheet looking for a killer feature that might lead you to upgrade but likely came up empty. It has been over three years since Apple last updated the iPad Mini, leading many to expect more significant changes.