The iPad mini is due a new version, its seventh-generation. Overdue, indeed, as the current model launched in September 2021. It seems likely that the next model could come very soon, then, perhaps as soon as the upcoming Special Event on Monday, September 9. Here’s why I think that’s wrong.
An increasing number of reports say that September 9 is possible. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently posted on X that stocks were low, a key indicator that suggests a replacement is almost here. Gurman said, “Many Apple stores are low on stock of the iPad mini in several configs, while the device is considered ‘constrained’ internally within Apple, I’m told. That *could* be a sign a new one is coming. It hasn’t been updated since 2021. Wouldn’t be surprised to see it updated for AI.”
That’s pretty persuasive and adds to his claim that all four versions of the iPad would be updated this year. Since the iPad Pro and iPad Air saw new models in May 2024, that leaves the iPad and iPad mini.
Another publication goes further: “With an Apple Event on September 9, that upgrade could arrive as Apple’s wave of product launches,” says Apple Insider.
So, September 9 looks likely, right?
I don’t think so. Apple likes to ensure that its most important product, the iPhone, gets as much spotlight as possible. There are already keen expectations that two (or possibly three) new Apple Watch models will be announced at the keynote, and possibly new AirPods, too.
In a regular year, the iPhone would be enough to complete the announcements. And this is not a regular year because, as Mark Gurman has said, “Perhaps the biggest component of the keynote will be the discussion of Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of AI features that will be available on all of the new iPhone models.
Honestly, there’s just no room for an iPad mini as well, especially as when the mini arrives, it’s likely that the 11th-generation iPad will be alongside it.
I think there are two possibilities for the next iPad mini: Apple may have a second special event this year, in October or November, when the iPad mini and iPad could be unveiled alongside new Mac products such as the MacBook Pro with M4 Pro chip. Alternatively, the iPads and Macs will be revealed by press release only, perhaps on successive days in the same week, also in October or November. Either way, September feels wrong.
