New iPad mini

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Apple’s latest iPad mini update — now with an OLED screen and A20 Pro chip — is drawing mixed reactions as its $700+ starting price represents a steep jump over previous models. Many appreciate the compact form factor, better display, and appeal for use cases like flying, media consumption, and sketching, but criticize the lack of ProMotion (120 Hz), limited storage on the base model, and continued omissions like multi‑user support and full GNSS on Wi‑Fi units. The launch is also feeding a broader unease about surging hardware prices amid AI-driven RAM and chip shortages, with some seeing the iPad line shifting decisively into luxury territory.

Pricing, Positioning & Value

  • Many see the ~$700 (US) / high international pricing as excessive, especially vs. past Minis and the base 11" iPad, which used to be much cheaper.
  • Several note the Mini is no longer a “budget iPad” but closer to a small iPad Air; others argue Apple is simply moving further into “luxury” pricing.
  • Some predict lower sales at current prices; others say high hardware costs (RAM/storage) justify part of the jump but not all.

Display, Performance & SKUs

  • OLED is widely praised for media and night reading (deep blacks, better contrast), though some worry about PWM eye strain and color tint variances.
  • Lack of ProMotion/120 Hz is a major disappointment for many; others say 60 Hz is fine and smoother scrolling is overrated.
  • Base models have a binned A20 Pro (5-core CPU) and higher storage tiers get the full 6-core version; RAM size remains unclear.

Form Factor, Use Cases & Alternatives

  • Form factor is widely liked: pilots (ForeFlight), drivers (larger nav display), note-taking, sketching, reading, and travel media.
  • Some see it as the best OLED e‑reader (in dark mode) if you can stomach the price.
  • Comparisons to the iPhone Duo: Duo is seen as more fragile, much pricier, and worse as a pure iPad replacement; Mini has more usable screen and costs less.

Design & Hardware Trade‑Offs

  • 60 Hz and lack of Face ID are recurring complaints; Touch ID and pencil compatibility quirks annoy upgraders.
  • The camera bump is heavily criticized on ergonomic and aesthetic grounds; many would prefer a thicker, heavier device with more battery and no bump.
  • Thinness is admired by some as “future tech,” but others prefer practicality (battery, durability, integrated protection).

AI, Memory Costs & Macro Trends

  • Multiple comments link price hikes to RAM/flash shortages driven by AI data center demand and chip-maker behavior.
  • Debate exists: some would “trade AI for cheaper hardware,” others accept short-term pain, expecting prices to normalize later.

Software & Ecosystem Issues

  • iPadOS on Mini is described as poorly tuned (oversized keyboard, awkward split views).
  • Lack of multi-user support remains a pain point for families and mixed personal/work use.
  • High repair costs for OLED screens reinforce the sense that Apple nudges users toward AppleCare or full replacement.