We compare the new iPad mini 8 with the previous-generation 7 in terms of display, weight and pricing, and review the impact of OLED, storage options, domestic pricing and launch timing.
The new iPad mini 8 features an OLED display, along with reduced thickness and weight. Compared with 7, it has an 8.5-inch OLED display and is 5.4mm thick, while the Wi-Fi model weighs 255g. Resolutions are 2,316×1,512 and 2,266×1,488, respectively, and brightness supports up to 600 nits and 1,200 nits at peak. ProMotion is not specified, and the display is expected to operate at the equivalent of 60Hz.
The configurations by storage capacity also change with the A20 Pro. The 512GB model has additional Neural Engine cores, while Nano-texture is available as an option for the 256GB model. The CPU has 5 cores in the 128GB and 256GB models, while the 512GB model differs in both CPU and Neural Engine configuration. The article notes that the relationship between storage capacity and performance needs to be assessed through hands-on comparisons.
The Wi-Fi model is 38g lighter, weighing 255g, while the Cellular model weighs 263g. Water and dust resistance is rated IP67, and the front camera has been moved to a position suited to landscape orientation. Support for USB-C, Touch ID and Apple Pencil Pro carries over, while connectivity advances to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.
Japan pricing starts at ¥119,800 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model, followed by ¥136,800 for 256GB and ¥171,800 for 512GB. Nano-texture glass costs an additional ¥17,000 for the 256GB and 512GB models, while Cellular costs ¥25,000 more than Wi-Fi. Pre-orders start on 29 October, with launch on 6 November.