If we’re being strictly honest, we have to admit that the new iPad Mini isn’t the most exciting of the iPad series when it comes to updates. Apple hasn’t made any major changes to the design of its small tablet, nor has it made any major changes to the hardware.
It’s hard to believe it’s been three years since a new version of the iPad Mini was released. In 2021, the tablet received a major design change to bring it on par with the Air and Pro, and now supports the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.
So it’s not really surprising that Apple hasn’t made too many changes this time around. And if it ain’t broke, why try to fix it? Apple kept things simple here, changing only the key parts like the chip (the A17 Pro, which was introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro and helps support pro-level apps). And most notable is AI such as Apple Intelligence. We still don’t really understand why we need it.
Also in use is the new Apple Pencil Pro, which takes advantage of the advanced features of Apple’s smart stylus, such as gyroscope movements to rotate the pen. However, if you already own a USB Apple Pencil, that will work as well.
In reality, Apple’s biggest competitors are its own stable of companies. Pro is aimed at high-end power users. Air for people who want the Pro experience but don’t need the price tag. The entry-level iPad is for people who want a no-frills iPad.
[ iPad Air 2024 review: A good middle-of-the-road choiceOpens in new window ]
The question is, where does the Mini fit in the iPad lineup? It’s too small to replace a laptop for work purposes, and too big to replace a cell phone for many tasks unless you have a big pocket to carry it.
The smaller screen means you’re less likely to multitask with the Mini, but it’s the perfect size for answering emails, reading a book or document, or watching streaming video on the go. It fits all but the most compact of my handbags, so I can take it anywhere.
The mini versions of Apple’s tablets have their fans, myself included, but don’t think that just because they’re small means they’re on the budget. Prices for the tablet start from 619 euros. But Apple isn’t cutting corners either. The display is very clear and perfect for both text and video streaming. Storage has been doubled to 128GB. The A17 chip may look like last year’s model, but the tablet is capable of all the standard tasks you’d normally ask it to do. Apple Intelligence, which brings smarter Siri and AI-powered features like email and document rewriting, will also be available on Mini, making it the cheapest iPad available today that supports this technology.
[ High stakes for Apple’s AI push as it plays catch-up with rivals amid lacklustre salesOpens in new window ]
And therein lies the problem for Irish people wanting to buy an iPad Mini. The main reason to buy the 2024 version of Mini is that it can support AI features. However, as you know, Apple Intelligence for Apple’s mobile devices is not yet available in Ireland, or the EU in general, and Apple has just confirmed that it will not arrive on iPads and iPhones in Ireland until April. This means users in Ireland will have to wait a few more months for a feature they’re not sure they’ll use yet. Even if it were released, it would take time to reach its full potential.
Will the next generation Mini arrive sooner than the three-year cycle of the last launch? If so, EU users may be better off waiting until Apple intelligence is fully established before making the leap. Currently, iterative upgrades like chip improvements, new Pencil support, and camera improvements are not enough to drive major upgrade cycles.
good
Even without the Apple Intelligence feature, the iPad Mini is still a great tablet. Throw it in your handbag as an e-reader, edit photos and videos on the 8.3-inch display, and add a keyboard to replace its bigger sibling.
The A17 Pro may not be the latest generation of Apple’s chips, but it’s a significant power boost over the 2021 iPad Mini.
And iPad Mini will support Apple Intelligence in the future, making Apple’s AI capabilities more affordable.
bad
Apple Intelligence’s April launch date in the EU poses an obstacle to an immediate push to upgrade to this version of Mini.
The Mini features some serious bezels, and Apple also decided to leave the front-facing camera on the top edge. This means that even though it has built-in center stage to ensure it’s always perfectly framed, the result is an oddly positioned image.
Everything else
The 12MP wide-angle camera on the back supports Smart HDR 4. It also uses machine learning to detect and scan documents from your camera app.
The lack of Face ID seems like a bit of an oversight. TouchID isn’t difficult, but having to go back to the fingerprint reader to unlock your device or access your password is inconvenient.
iPad Mini comes in several different colors, including pale blue and purple. This also means color-matched accessories, such as smart covers.
verdict
This is a solid update, even if it lacks the wow factor. iPad Mini is definitely a second screen and a replacement for your main device. But in the short term, the lack of Apple Intelligence may deter some potential buyers.
