To be completely candid, one would need to acknowledge that the latest upgrade of the iPad Mini, as part of the iPad series, may not contain the most thrilling developments from Apple. This smaller variant of the tablet has received neither a design makeover nor any substantial hardware upgrades from its makers.
Considering that three years have elapsed since the launch of a fresh iPad Mini version, it’s quite remarkable. A considerable redesign was introduced to the tablet in 2021, aligning it with the look and feel of the Air and the Pro models, and equipping it with the capacity to use the Apple Pencil’s second generation.
Therefore, it’s hardly bewildering to observe that Apple hasn’t integrated many dramatic alterations this time around. As the popular saying goes, there’s no need to mend what isn’t broken. The tech giant has chosen to keep it straightforward with the adjustments, modifying only the vital components. For instance, they switched the chip to the A17 Pro that was first seen with the iPhone 15 Pro and assists in running professional grade applications. The Apple Intelligence, a cutting-edge AI system for those yet to grasp its necessity, is another noteworthy inclusion.
The latest iPad Mini also accommodates the Apple Pencil Pro, allowing you to enjoy the enhanced capabilities of Apple’s intelligent stylist, such as the gyroscopic motion facility for spinning the pen. However, the previous USB Apple Pencil will still function properly with this device.
In truth, the major rivals to Apple stem from its own portfolio. The Pro targets the elite power users, the Air is designed for those aspiring for the Pro’s features but at a more affordable rate, while the rudimentary iPad caters to those seeking a simple iPad experience.
The conundrum then lies in deciphering the role of the Mini in the iPad lineup. Its small dimensions make it unsuitable to supplant a laptop for formal tasks and it is equally impractical as a phone substitute for many tasks, unless one is prepared to carry their gadget in a larger carrying pocket.
In spite of the smaller display making multitasking a less feasible option on the Mini, it is the ideal device for handling emails, perusing books or documents, or for portable streaming. Given that it fits in nearly all my bags, barring the exceptionally petite ones, it has become my constant companion wherever I go.
The iPad Mini, a smaller yet equally powerful tablet from Apple, is a popular choice among users including myself. However, don’t mistake its compact size for affordability – this tablet’s starting price is set at €619. It’s fair to say that Apple has not scrimped on quality, equipping the mini tablet with a crystal clear display optimal for textual and video material. Additionally, the device has seen its storage capacity doubled to an impressive 128GB. Despite the A17 chip seeming outdated compared to this year’s model, it can easily handle the standard day-to-day functions expected from it. The upcoming integration of Apple Intelligence introduces enhanced features like smarter Siri assistance and AI sleep email and document rewriting. We should note that this makes the iPad Mini the most budget-friendly tablet offering these functionalities.
For prospective iPad Mini buyers in Ireland, the tablet’s main selling point is its compatibility with AI features. However, the launch of Apple Intelligence on portable Apple devices in the region, or in the European Union more generally, is still in the pipeline. In fact, Apple has recently announced that it will be April before the technology is available to iPad and iPhone users in these areas. This leads to several more months of anticipation for features whose utility the users aren’t certain about. Furthermore, it will take some time post-launch to exploit the full capabilities of the tech.
Will we see the arrival of the next gen Mini before its predecessor’s three-year cycle? If so, waiting for Apple Intelligence to become fully available may be more beneficial to EU consumers before deciding to upgrade. Currently, improvements such as enhanced chips, new Pencil support, and upgraded camera capabilities don’t seem convincing enough to spur a massive upgrade.
The iPad Mini remains a pretty good option, even without the advanced features offered by Apple Intelligence. Its convenience extends beyond just tossing it in a handbag, also allowing for photo and video edits on its 8.3-inch display with optional keyboard additions. The A17 Pro chip might not be Apple’s latest, but it’s undoubtedly more powerful than what was featured in the 2021 iPad Mini. Eventually, the mini tablet will support Apple Intelligence to provide a less expensive gateway into Apple’s AI capabilities.
The only downside is the upcoming April release of Apple Intelligence within the EU. The delayed launch poses an obstacle in the immediate shift to this Mini version.
Despite exhibiting impressive bezels, the iPad Mini has its front camera positioned along the top edge, resulting in oddly situated footage even though the Center Stage feature works to maintain a consistent frame. When it comes to additional features, the device’s rear 12MP wide-angle camera, which supports Smart HDR 4, employs machine learning capabilities that allow document scanning straight from the camera application.
The absence of Face ID feature might seem like a slight oversight. Although returning to using fingerprint readers, through TouchID, for device unlocking and password access might be perceived as awkward.
Available in a range of colours such as light blue and purple, the iPad Mini extends its colour schemes to accessories like smart covers.
Drawing a conclusion, the iPad Mini’s latest updates, though lacking a spectacular surprise element, are still robust. It certainly serves as a secondary screen rather than replacing your primary device. However, potential customers may be dissuaded by the short-term absence of Apple Intelligence.