- Apple announced 2021 iPads: its latest version of its mainline iPad tablet and a new design for its iPad mini.
- It took some shots against Chromebooks and Android tablets in the process.
- The new iPad starts at $329, while the new iPad mini will be priced starting at $499.
Apple used its latest media event to introduce new versions of its main iPad tablet, along with a new design for its smaller iPad Mini tablet.
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The new most-basic iPad gets some new processing power.
The new iPad will include an upgraded A13 Bionic processor, which it claims makes it three times faster than the best-selling Chromebook, and up to six times faster than the best-selling Android tablet. The 10.2-inch Retina display will include a 12MP ultra-wide front-facing camera. It will also have the iPad OS 15 operating system, along with the Center Stage video call feature found on the iPad Pro. It starts with at least 64GB of onboard storage, up to 256GB of storage. Finally, it also supports the first-generation Apple Pencil stylus.
The new iPad Mini design includes smaller bezels that allow it to expand its display size to 8.3-inches while retaining the same footprint. Other new features include support for 5G wireless networks, a USB-C port for charging, the A15 Bionic chip, a new Touch ID button placed on top of the tablet, the Center Stage video calling feature, and more.
The teeny tiny iPad gets a 2021 refresh with more power.
Both the new iPad tablets are available to pre-order now, and will officially go on sale on September 24. The new iPad’s price starts at $329, with education customers able to get it for as low as $299. The iPad Mini has a starting price point of $499. Both of the tablets also are made with 100% recycled aluminum.