Rumored new iPad mini 6 could feature A15 chip from iPhone 13, USB-C

Source: Jon Prosser / FrontPageTech

What you need to know

Multiple rumors indicate Apple has a new iPad mini in the works.
It is expected to feature a new design and updated internals.
A new report says that includes an A15 processor and a USB-C port.

A new report says that Apple's rumored upcoming iPad mini will feature the same A15 chip as the iPhone 13 and a USB-C connector, as well as a smart connector like current iPads.

According to 9to5Mac the new iPad mini will feature the A15 chip expected to debut in the iPhone 13. This will be based on current 5nm manufacturing processes, and we've previously heard the iPhone 13's chip will be made using a new N5 Plus manufacturing technique.

9to5Mac also says that according to sources the new iPad mini will have a USB-C connector and a Smart connector like the iPad Air and the iPad Pro.

We've previously heard multiple rumors stating the iPad mini 6 could feature a redesign to bring it up to speed with the rest of the iPad lineup, including thinner bezels and a squarer design. In June Jon Prosser reported that the new iPad would feature the aforementioned redesign, no home button, Touch ID in the iPad's power button, USB-C, and a new smaller Apple Pencil. It has also been suggested the iPad mini could feature 5G support.

Much of this information was reiterated by Mark Gurman who says the new iPad mini will be the products "biggest redesign" in its nine-year history, against pointing to no Home Button and other changes. The only release window Gurman gave was that the iPad mini was set for a fall launch.

If the iPad mini delivers on expectations it could turn out to be one of the best iPads Apple has ever made.

Waiting game

Beta testers will likely wait until July to get their hands on iOS 16

If all goes according to previous years we can expect Apple to release the first developer beta of iOS 16 on June 6, the same day that it will be announced. That's the date of the WWDC22 opening keynote but those who are part of the public beta program look set to be waiting a little while longer.