Much has happened since the launch of the original iPad mini in 2012. A range of Apple tablets devised by the legendary Steve Jobs, despite the fact that he left us a year ago when it was presented. A very particular device due to its size, aimed at a specific audience looking for high-end tablets for all kinds of situations without size being an obstacle.
From that original model to today, there have been up to 6 generations . The latest was launched just a few months ago and fulfilling the wish of fans of the range who repeatedly asked for an iPad mini with an “all screen” design. However, this is not the only change suffered, since throughout its history there have been other notable changes.
From iPad mini 1 to 6: its most notable changes
At the design level there were few changes from the original model to the fifth generation, since all mounted 7.9-inch screens until reaching the 2021 model with 8.3. Its form factor has also been identical until this year’s model, with the first five versions maintaining pronounced bezels at the front and curved edges all the way to the rear. On this year’s model there are reduced bezels with absolute prominence of the screen and totally flat sides that only round when reaching the corners.
iPad mini (1st gen.), iPad mini 2, and iPad mini 3
There have been no changes in colors either until this year in which silver and space gray have been left behind to make room for a wider palette. At the processor level, there have been natural leaps, each year carrying the latest iPhone chip and always providing excellent performance.
iPad mini 4, iPad mini (5th gen.) and iPad mini (6th gen.)
Therefore, in broad strokes we could say that the first five were the same , except for that chip change that in the end has been a consequence of the moment and the introduction of Touch ID as an unlocking system in the third generation. It was in going from the iPad mini 5 to the iPad mini 6 that the biggest change has been experienced at all levels.
For example, the compatibility with the Apple Pencil , which although the fifth generation was released with the first generation stylus, the sixth generation has done so with the Pencil 2. The charging port has also changed leaving behind the Lightning of the first five to accommodate USB-C.
And in price, have they gone up or down?
Answering this question, tell you that as a general rule they have been maintained, although with some changes. From the original model to the second there was a jump of 60 euros and this first cost 329 euros and the second 389 euros . Later that price has been maintained until reaching the fifth generation, when it rose to 449 euros.
And in the end, if we take inflation into account, it could be said that more or less prices have been stable that have not undergone too many variations. Of course, from the fifth to the sixth there has been a change of 100 euros again, now costing an iPad mini 6, at least, 549 euros . Although it may also be understandable for having been the one that has changed the most in these years.
Therefore, the conclusion about its most relevant changes is as follows:
- iPad mini 2 in 2013: new chip and price increase.
- iPad mini 3 in 2014: new chip and introduction of Touch ID.
- iPad mini 4 in 2015: new chip.
- iPad mini (5th Gen) in 2019: New chip, Apple Pencil 1 support, and price increase.
- iPad mini (6th gen.) in 2021: new chip, new design, bigger screen, USB-C, Apple Pencil 2 compatibility and price increase.
