iPad mini A15 Bionic 2021

Please note that while this Wi-Fi/Cellular model supports GPS/GNSS and 5G NR cellular networks, it does not support 5G NR mmWave bands n258 (26 GHz), n260 (39 GHz), and n261 (28 GHz). This single model was distributed nearly worldwide, including in the United States, but was not available in mainland China.

The iPad mini 6th Gen (Wi-Fi + Cellular) is equipped with a fully-laminated, antireflective 8.3" LED-backlit 2266x1488 "Liquid Retina" display (326 ppi, 500 nits), framed by a slim black bezel and housed in a thin case with rounded corners and flat sides. It is available in four metallic colors: "Space Gray," pink, purple, and "Starlight."

This device is powered by a six-core Apple A15 Bionic processor, a five-core GPU, and a 16-core "Neural Engine." It comes with 4 GB of RAM and storage options of either 64 GB or 256 GB. Key features include a "Touch ID" sensor in the top button and support for the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen (A2051, MU8F2AM/A), which charges magnetically on the device's side. It has a front 12-megapixel "Ultra Wide" FaceTime HD camera with a 122-degree view, capable of 1080p video, cinematic video stabilization, and "Center Stage" for automatic subject tracking. A rear 12-megapixel camera captures up to 4K video with cinematic stabilization.

In addition to a USB-C port, connectivity includes 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) with HT80 with MIMO, Bluetooth 5.0, 4G/LTE, and the aforementioned 5G. It supports both a nano-SIM slot and eSIM. The device also features dual microphones and stereo speakers. Battery life is rated at 10 hours for Wi-Fi web surfing or video, and 9 hours for cellular web surfing.

Compared to its predecessor, the iPad mini 6th Gen models are a significant upgrade, sharing more with the high-end iPad Air than previous iPad minis. The elimination of the Home button and smaller bezels provide a larger display in a more compact form. It also features a more powerful architecture, better cameras, advanced external keyboard support, USB-C (instead of Lightning), the advanced Apple Pencil 2nd Gen, and the clever top-button "Touch ID" sensor.

The cellular-equipped iPad mini 6th generation (A2568) was lauded as the ultimate portable powerhouse, combining the model's stunning redesign with the freedom of 5G connectivity. Reviewers celebrated the all-screen design, which accommodated a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display in a smaller overall body. The performance, driven by the powerful A15 Bionic chip, was praised for its incredible speed and efficiency, making the device more than capable of handling professional applications and high-end games. The switch to USB-C was a major highlight, opening up a new ecosystem of accessories and faster data transfer. Support for the magnetically-charging 2nd generation Apple Pencil was a huge leap forward, solidifying the mini's status as a serious creative tool. The A2568 model, sold globally, offered extensive 5G and LTE band support, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity for users on the move. The upgraded camera system, especially the front-facing 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage, significantly improved the video conferencing experience. Despite its premium price, the combination of a modern design, pro-level performance, and go-anywhere 5G made the iPad mini 6 cellular model an incredibly compelling and unique offering in the tablet market.