I have always been fond of the iPad Mini, especially since Apple introduced the Mini 6 in 2021. For the first time, it felt like a tablet that could handle everything from content creation to entertainment without weighing me down. I referred to it as my "desert island device," and I truly meant it.
With the release of the iPad Mini 7, the device has become even more powerful, thanks to the A17 Pro chip and Apple's new Intelligence system. However, despite its 5G support, a gorgeous 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, and a wide range of apps, it still feels incomplete because it can't make native phone calls. In 2024, this feels like a big missed opportunity.
The iPad Mini 7's A17 Pro chip is quite powerful, offering a 30% boost in CPU performance and a 25% increase in GPU performance compared to the Mini 6. This means that apps run smoother, games are more immersive, and the device can handle demanding AR experiences and professional apps like a pro.
However, Apple's decision to use the A17 Pro chip in the iPad Mini 7 raises some questions. This chip was also used in last year's iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, while this year's iPhone 16 lineup features the A18 chip, which is 30% faster and more energy-efficient. Why not bring the cutting-edge A18 chip to the iPad Mini 7? Perhaps Apple had leftover A17 Pro chips from last year's iPhone 15 Pro production that needed to be used up.
The A18 chip isn't just about speed; its efficiency also helps extend battery life. Using this chip in the iPad Mini 7 would have made it even more powerful for people relying on it as their go-to device. By sticking with the A17 Pro, Apple hasn't fully pushed the iPad Mini 7 to its potential, and that's a disappointment.
Despite missing out on the A18 chip, the iPad Mini 7 is still packed with features that make it an impressive device:
5G Connectivity: The iPad Mini 7 supports 5G, making it ideal for staying connected on the go. Whether downloading files, streaming in 4K, or engaging in online gaming, its performance remains solid.
Display: The Mini 7's 2266 x 1488 Full HD+ Liquid Retina display is bright, with 500 nits of brightness, and the anti-reflective coating makes it perfect for use outdoors. Whether you're sketching, gaming, or watching movies, the display delivers fantastic visuals.
Cameras: The 12MP rear camera with Smart HDR 4 is perfect for capturing vivid photos and 4K videos, while the 12MP Ultra Wide front camera supports Center Stage, keeping you in the frame during video calls.
Battery Life: The iPad Mini 7's 5078mAh battery offers all-day battery life, allowing you to use it on the go without constantly reaching for a charger.
It's frustrating that the iPad Mini 7, despite being equipped with 5G, a powerful A17 Pro chip, and communication tools like iMessage and FaceTime, still can't make native phone calls. At $649 for the Wi-Fi + 5G model, the Mini 7 is a more affordable option when compared to the base-level iPhone 16, which starts at $799. This price difference makes the iPad Mini 7 an appealing alternative, especially if Apple enabled phone functionality.
While it's not a device you'd typically hold up to your ear, it would be ideal for use with AirPods or any Bluetooth headset -- especially the new AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2, which feature improved noise cancellation. Speakerphone mode would also be useful for hands-free use in private settings. Apple could easily enable phone functionality with a software update, yet they've chosen not to.
This omission feels especially surprising when considering that competitors in the tablet market often allow their devices to make calls via LTE. If the Mini 7 had this feature, it could become a true all-in-one device, allowing users to replace their iPhones potentially. For students, travelers, and professionals, having a single device that handles everything would be a game-changer.
Unfortunately, Apple hasn't offered the feature at this time.
Beyond phone call functionality, there are a few other software limitations that prevent the iPad Mini 7 from reaching its full potential:
CarPlay: Despite the Mini 7's GPS and 5G capabilities, it lacks CarPlay support. While you can use it for navigation, the absence of CarPlay limits its utility in vehicles.
In terms of hardware, the iPad Mini 7 performs well, but there are a few areas where it still lags:
MagSafe Charging: The Mini 7 sticks with USB-C for charging, which is fast but lacks the convenience of Apple's MagSafe system. Since MagSafe has been a staple of Apple's ecosystem, its absence here is another bummer.
eSIM Only: Like the current generation of iPhones and iPad Pros, the Mini 7 lacks a physical SIM card slot, relying solely on eSIM. While this works well in many regions, users who prefer or need to use physical data-only SIM cards when traveling internationally may find themselves out of luck. This limitation can be particularly inconvenient for those relying on quick, flexible SIM swaps in countries without widespread eSIM support.
No NFC for Apple Pay: You can use Apple Pay for online purchases, but there's still no NFC support for in-store contactless payments, meaning you'll need to pull out a physical card when making purchases.
No Satellite Texts: Apple hasn't indicated in its marketing if the iPad Mini 7 with 5G has the same satellite text support for emergency communications as the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16.
The iPad Mini 7 is an incredibly versatile device that caters to different audiences, but it excels in two particular categories: students and older users.
For students, the iPad Mini 7 offers portability, Apple Pencil Pro support, and all-day battery life, making it an ideal companion for note-taking, content creation, and multitasking on the go. It's small enough to fit in a backpack but powerful enough to handle educational apps, media editing, and even gaming.
Older users will appreciate its lightweight design and larger screen compared to an iPhone. This makes browsing the web, reading emails, and watching videos easier without straining eyes. Its intuitive interface and Apple Pencil Pro make it perfect for casual productivity, journaling, or creative hobbies.
The iPad Mini 7 gets a lot right. It's portable, powerful, and packed with features like Apple Intelligence and Apple Pencil Pro support, making it a great device for students, professionals, and older users. Its top-notch performance and 5G connectivity make it a strong contender for those needing a reliable, high-powered device.
However, the lack of phone call functionality holds it back. If Apple enabled phone calls and addressed some of the other limitations -- like the inability to manage Apple Watches -- the iPad Mini 7 could easily become the all-in-one device it has the potential to be.
Until then, it remains an incredibly capable small tablet but not quite the perfect hybrid it could be.