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Asia Manufacturing PMI Rebounds as Exports and Tech Demand Drive Growth into 2026 
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U.S. Dollar Starts 2026 Weak as Yen, Euro and Sterling Hold Firm Amid Rate Cut Expectations 
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Apple has officially launched the new generation of its iPad Mini, incorporating cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) features designed to enhance user experience. This update aims to position Apple as a leader in integrating AI capabilities into its devices.
Enhanced Performance with A17 Pro Chip
The latest iPad Mini is powered by the A17 Pro chip, which is also featured in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. With a six-core central processing unit, the A17 Pro boosts CPU performance by 30% compared to the previous generation of iPad Minis, making it central to the operation of Apple Intelligence, Apple's proprietary AI software.
AI Features and Software Updates
Apple is set to roll out the first set of AI features in the U.S. version of English this month through a software update to iPadOS 18.1. The initial features will be compatible with iPads equipped with the A17 Pro or M1 chips and later models. Additional functionalities, including image generation tools, Genmoji, and ChatGPT-powered capabilities, will be released over the coming months.
Market Outlook
In September, Apple introduced its long-awaited AI-boosted iPhone 16 lineup. While initial sales data raised concerns about demand, research firm Canalys predicts that the iPhone 16 will significantly boost Apple's sales in the fourth quarter and into the first half of 2025, following record-high shipments in the third quarter.
The new iPad Mini, starting at $499, is now available for pre-order and will begin shipping to customers and Apple Store locations next week.
