Once again, the cool cats at iFixit have torn down the new iPad mini and posted a full report of their findings.
The iPad mini 5 has been dissected, the 7.9-inch tablet looking nearly identical to its iPad mini 4 predecessor, the only external differences being the new “A2133” model number on the back, as well as the loss of regulatory markings, which are now all software-based.
Internally, the iPad mini 5 contains the same size battery as the iPad mini 4, which is rated for 19.32Wh, and is a slightly different battery model. The front-facing camera module has been updated to a 7MP sensor, and there are new ambient light sensors to accommodate the True Tone display technology.
In addition, the microphones have been moved and are now located near the front-facing camera. Other new discoveries include Bluetooth 5.0 and 3GB of RAM.
True to form, iFixit commented on the iPad mini 5’s lack of easy repairability, awarding the device only a 2 out of 10 and citing difficulties replacing the Home button, the sheer amount of adhesive that complicates “all repairs,” and battery replacement being “unnecessarily difficult.”
Apple announced the new iPad mini two weeks ago, alongside an updated 10.5-inch version of the iPad Air. Both new iPads support the first-generation Apple Pencil, while the iPad Air also supports a Smart Keyboard.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.