Apple recently announced that it will replace the A17 Pro processor7th-generation iPad mini, added support for the Apple Pencil Pro launched in the first half of this year, thereby corresponding to more stylus operation functions. The author also recently obtained a real machine to compare the user experience with iPad Air and iPad Pro.
Hardware Review
Compared to the sixth-generation iPad mini, Apple boasts that while maintaining the 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the iPad mini has been upgraded to the A17 Pro processor, which has a 30% increase in CPU performance and a 25% increase in GPU display performance compared to the previous generation. As for the neural network computing performance, it has been increased by more than 2 times, and can also respond toApple Intelligence service, which means that more memory capacity can be used to correspond to the gaming experience.
The 1200-megapixel wide-angle rear camera now supports Smart HDR 4, which can capture photos with a larger dynamic range and more natural effects. It can also use machine learning technology directly in the camera app, allowing users to "scan" after identifying documents.
Other upgraded specifications include the addition of support for Wi-Fi 6E in networking specifications, and the provision of models that support 5G networking specifications. It can also use Internet transmission services provided by telecom operators in different countries and regions through the built-in eSIM. The transmission bandwidth of the built-in USB-C port has also been doubled, corresponding to a transmission speed of 2Gbps. The built-in storage capacity has been adjusted to start at 10GB, and 128GB and 256GB storage capacity specifications are also available. The body is available in blue, purple, starlight and space gray colors respectively.
This time, support for Apple Pencil Pro has been added, allowing users to call up additional operation functions through the two-finger press gesture of the stylus. It also corresponds to the Apple Pencil hovering function, allowing users to confirm the writing position of the pen tip.
In addition, in the new version of iPadOS 18, you can also use the new computer app on the new iPad mini, or use the smoother handwritten note function in the Notes app, and record content with audio recording and transcript functions. You can also synchronize the transcript with the sound to facilitate users to confirm the recorded content.
The update also includes new layout and editing functions in the Photos App, new animated text effects in Messages, and more ways to respond and interact. It is also expected that more of Apple's upcoming "Apple Intelligence" service features will be added to iPadOS 18.1, such as the Genmoji function for quickly generating images, or using drafts to create original emojis. It also includes the new Siri digital assistant service, but it is currently only available in the United States with an English interface.
Performance data differences
The author used the sixth-generation iPad Pro (equipped with M2 processor) and the fifth-generation iPad Air (equipped with M1 processor) on hand, and compared the performance data of the seventh-generation iPad mini (equipped with A17 Pro processor) that I experienced this time using software such as Geekbench.
A significant difference in single-core performance can be seen between the A-series and M-series processors. The A-series processors are primarily targeted at iPhone usage scenarios, allowing for faster increases in single-core performance. However, the M-series processors still have an advantage in multi-core computing due to greater cooling capacity and battery life supporting high-performance multi-core computing. Therefore, the A17 Pro on the seventh-generation iPad mini performs better in most single-core computing scenarios.
However, when focusing on CPU multi-core computing or GPU computing, the advantages of the M series processors become apparent. However, in the case of artificial intelligence computing, the seventh-generation iPad mini has a better overall performance due to its 8GB of memory capacity.
actual use
Compared to other iPad models, the iPad mini features an 8.3-inch screen size. Although it's noticeably smaller, it's well-suited for one-handed use and is well-suited for use as an e-reader, a notebook, or even a portable entertainment device. It can also connect to Apple's expanding "Apple Intelligence" service, and its battery life is better than the previous generation.
Although the seventh generation iPad mini has a minor update to its overall interface, it mainly upgrades the processor, memory and other specifications, and supports the use of Apple Pencil Pro, thereby supporting more handwriting functions. Compared with the previous generation, the most obvious update is that when browsing web pages and other content operations, you may encounter problems due to fast sliding."Jello effect" situationAlthough there are not many changes in the hardware specifications, there are obvious improvements (but some situations will still exist).
I used to use the iPad Air, mainly because of its light weight and screen size, which can be used as an external monitor for a MacBook Pro or as a multimedia player. However, after switching to the iPad mini, it actually did not affect my original usage habits. I even added the function of organizing my notes on the iPad mini.
In addition, games are also something that can be easily experienced on iPad mini.
For example, the iPad mini, powered by the A17 Pro processor, offers virtually no issues running any Apple Arcade game. Even titles like "Assassin's Creed: Phantasms" and "Resident Evil 4: Remastered" run smoothly. Combined with Apple's current relaxation of home console emulator app availability and compatibility with accessories like the Xbox Wireless Controller, the iPad mini can be transformed into a ready-to-play "home gaming console."
On the other hand, since both PlayStation and Xbox game consoles provide remote control connection and play functions, I can remotely start my home game console through the Internet and play various games in a streaming mode when I am away from home or on a business trip.
However, the seventh-generation iPad mini still has some shortcomings. For example, it still uses the Touch ID fingerprint unlocking interface and has not been switched to the Face ID facial recognition design. The screen specifications have not followed the full-fit design, the screen frame design has not been adjusted, and even the screen refresh rate is still controlled at 60Hz, and has not been upgraded to the 120Hz ProMotion specification.
summary
Overall, the seventh-generation iPad mini mainly continues the iPad mini's feature of being more convenient to carry around. Although its overall performance is not as good as the iPad Pro and iPad Air, which have already switched to Apple Silicon M-series processors, and its screen size is also smaller than the iPad Air, and its display performance is not as good as the iPad Pro, it can still be used as an extension device for iPhone and Mac with its suitable one-handed grip, sufficient performance, and support for Apple Pencil Pro.
