Apple is bringing its TechWoven material to the iPad for the first time, introducing a redesigned Smart Folio for the new iPad mini that replaces the company’s long-standing polyurethane cover with a woven fabric finish.

The new accessory launches alongside the recently announced iPad mini with the A20 Pro chip and OLED display, marking a notable change to Apple’s tablet accessories. Rather than simply swapping materials, Apple has also updated the Smart Folio’s design, although the changes come with a higher price tag.

The TechWoven Smart Folio costs £79/$79, making it £20/$20 more expensive than the previous-generation model. It comes in two colours, Navy Blue and Taupe, designed to complement the new iPad mini’s Midnight and Starlight finishes.

One of the biggest changes is the move to a two-panel construction, replacing the previous design with a more flexible cover that supports a wider range of viewing angles.

Like earlier Smart Folios, it attaches magnetically to the iPad mini, but Apple says the updated design offers greater freedom when positioning the tablet, whether you’re watching videos, reading or working.

The switch to TechWoven also marks a departure from a material Apple has used for more than a decade.

Polyurethane first appeared on the iPad 2’s Smart Cover in 2011 and has remained a familiar part of the company’s tablet accessories ever since. With no polyurethane alternative announced, the new iPad mini looks set to become the first model since the original iPad to launch without that option.

For existing iPad users, the biggest difference will likely be the new fabric finish and more adjustable stand, although the price increase may be harder to justify for those happy with the older design.

Pre-orders for the TechWoven Smart Folio are now open, alongside the new iPad mini, with both products becoming available on November 6.