Apple has taken the iPad mini to a new level and is presenting the seventh generation with the A17 Pro chip. This gives the smallest member of the iPad family a major performance boost without sacrificing its handy 8.3-inch size.
A17 Pro: More power in the compact class
The A17 Pro chip gives the new iPad mini 30% more CPU and 25% more GPU power compared to the previous model. This power enables faster loading times, better graphics performance and smooth use even with demanding applications. The iPad mini offers new opportunities for creatives and multitaskers in particular to get more done on the go.
Apple Intelligence: Waiting for Germany
A central point in the presentation of the iPad mini in the USA is Apple Intelligence. This new software extends the device with features such as improved writing tools, image generation and task automation. However, it remains unclear when Apple Intelligence will also be available in Germany. While it is already being introduced in the USA with iPadOS 18.1, there is no exact date for the German market yet. This leaves the question open as to how relevant this feature really is if it is still a long time coming here.
Jelly Scrolling: Fixed or Not?
Another unresolved problem is the so-called "jelly scrolling", which caused criticism in the last iPad mini generation. This phenomenon occurs when the screen updates unevenly when scrolling, which can be particularly annoying when reading text. Apple has not yet provided any information on this, which raises the question of whether the problem has been fixed in the new version or whether users will have to continue to live with it.
Improvements in detail: Camera, Wi-Fi and Apple Pencil Pro
Apple has also refined other details. The camera has been improved to 12 MP with Smart HDR 4, which enables clearer photos, especially in poor lighting conditions. In addition, Wi-Fi 6E ensures lightning-fast internet connections, and data transfer via USB-C has also been accelerated.
Support for the Apple Pencil Pro brings a whole new dimension to using the iPad mini. Thanks to pressure sensitivity, haptic feedback and gesture control, writing and drawing becomes even more precise and intuitive.
Availability and prices
The new iPad mini can be pre-ordered now. In Germany, the price starts at €599 for the Wi-Fi model with 128 GB storage. If you need more storage, you can also choose versions with 256 GB or 512 GB. The iPad mini will be officially available from October 23rd.
So it remains to be seen whether the iPad mini can also convince in practice beyond the technical upgrades - especially with regard to unresolved problems such as jelly scrolling and the still unavailable availability of Apple Intelligence in Germany.
