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.

A new iPad Mini was expected by the end of the year, and much like we predicted, Apple delivered one. Not a lot has changed in terms of design, but the new Mini has an A17 Pro chip that can handle soon-to-launch generative AI-based Apple Intelligence features, as well as Pencil Pro compatibility.

Apple AAPL.O on Tuesday launched its new generation of the iPad mini packed with AI features including writing tools and an improved Siri assistant, as the iPhone maker races to boost its devices with artificial-intelligence capabilities.