Apple’s new iPad Mini is boring (and why that’s good)
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The new iPad Mini supports the latest Apple Intelligence features.
Apple quietly released an updated version of the pilot-favorite iPad Mini this week. If you’re like us, you ran down the spec sheet looking for a killer feature that might lead you to upgrade but likely came up empty. It has been over three years since Apple last updated the iPad Mini, leading many to expect more significant changes.
The exterior of the new Mini looks identical to the 6th Generation version it replaces, which was released in September 2021. As you’d expect, the main upgrades are on the inside, including a faster processor and improved wireless radios. We’ll first run through each new spec (yawn) and then explain why we think this was the right move for Apple to make.
What’s new in the iPad Mini
As you’d expect, most of the attention is focused on the new model’s faster processor. The latest Mini uses Apple’s A17 Pro processor, the same chip that powers the iPhone 15 Pro. It’s no secret that this was done to support the new Apple Intelligence features that will be released in iOS 18.1 at the end of the month. Beyond that, the updates are incremental at best:
Processor: A17 Pro processor
RAM: 8GB (previously 4GB)
Base Storage: 128GB (previously 64GB)
Camera: 12MP wide rear camera with new support for HDR 4 for better photos
Wi-Fi: added support for Wi-Fi 6E to connect to the faster 6 GHz band
Apple Pencil: added support for the newest Apple Pencil Pro accessory
There’s also a lot that hasn’t changed. The physical footprint is identical to the previous model, and the only way you’d know you’re holding the new one is by looking for the addition of the “iPad Mini” label on the back. The screen is the same 8.3″ size, with a 2266 x 1488 resolution. The physical controls on the top are the same, and it continues to use USB-C for charging. You’ll find the same TouchID feature on the power button for biometric security instead of the more advanced FaceID scanning.
Why we like this update
The iPad Mini continues to be the most popular model among pilots, thanks to its affordability and small footprint in the cockpit. Fortunately for the aviation community, Apple hasn’t messed with success in this latest update. They could have used their latest M4 chip, bumped up the display specs, and added FaceID, but that would have pushed the price out of most pilots’ budgets.
Instead, they stuck with a modest update and added just enough processor to support their upcoming AI features but kept the starting price at $499. Since the starting storage is now larger at 128GB, this is also a better deal than the previous model, which started at 64GB. Also, the physical dimensions remain the same so you can use the same mounts.
That leads to the final question: should you upgrade? We’ve been flying with the current iPad Mini since its release in 2021 and have no complaints about its ability to keep up with ForeFlight’s most advanced features. It’ll be interesting to see what new AI features Apple and aviation app developers release over the next twelve months, which could make for a compelling reason to upgrade to this new model. But for now, we’d say stay put if you’re flying with the current iPad Mini.
If you’re flying with a 5th-generation iPad Mini or older, it’s definitely time to upgrade to take advantage of the faster processor and larger 8.3″ screen compared to older models. Equally important, this new iPad Mini is the perfect option for pilots new to iPads or student pilots looking to buy their first iPad for the cockpit.
Hey Apple, I’m hearing “crickets.” Again. I’m stunned that such a “bland” release would even be contemplated – much less released.
A $4,000 Vision Pro … a “dud” iPad Mini … even that 2-week delay of iOS 18 for the M4 iPad models — all indicate Apple is “off course” as a tech company. Yes, the key word here is “compelling.” There’s no good reason at the moment to purchase the new mini.
My suggestion for prospective buyers is to purchase a “gently used” older model on eBay, and save a buck or two.
Been looking at that one for awhile. Think I’ll wait.
Hi Mike,
It’s been a minute or so. I hope all is well with you and your family. All is well here. Please contact me via email when you can love to catch up with you.
Pat
Has field testing shown a need for a fan cooling mount for this processor? Without one, my 2020 iPad Pro 11″ gets hot on a yoke mount. I had to use a cooling fan backing mount.
But they still kept the screen brightness at a low 500nits! The only disadvantage of the mini is that screen brightness in the aircraft cabin when sunlight is an issue. That’s why I didn’t buy the mini 6 when it came out, and probably won’t upgrade from my mini 5 to this one. Disappointed.
Two things that would have been helpful as I use this iPad mini to run ForeFlight. Face ID to lock and unlock and a longer battery life.
Hi Dave smith, just curious how long does your battery last? Under 10 hours ?