Although the new iPad mini looks exactly like the old model right down to the marketing wallpaper, there are a few notable differences, including the new A17 Pro processor and support for Apple Intelligence. You’ll also find something new in the box: a modern charging cable.
Apple introduced a braided USB-C charging cable with the iPad Pro in 2022, so the mini, which was updated in late 2021, didn’t make the cut. And since it hadn’t received a refresh until this week, it was the only iPad that still had the old cable which isn’t as nice or as durable. With the new mini, Apple has fixed this problem and now provides a woven cable in the box.
Apple sells the 1m cable for $19, which supports charging at up to 60 watts and transfers data at USB 2 speeds (480 Mbps). The iPad mini’s USB 3 Gen 2 port can transfer data at speeds of up to 10Gbps for the first time, so if you want to enjoy faster transfers, you’ll need another cable.
Plus, if you’re in Europe, you won’t get a charger in the box. Apple previously removed the charger from the iPad Air and Pro cases when they arrived in May and this week removed the charger from the 10th generation iPad’s box. This is likely in response to a wave of European regulations targeting e-waste. Apple still provides a 20W charger for iPads sold in the United States and other regions.
The iPad mini is available for pre-order now and will hit shelves on Wednesday, October 23.
