Apple iPad mini 6 (2021) the biggest design leap since the 1st Gen iPad mini – but is it still relevant in 2024
A complete redesign is way overdue for devices like the standard iPad and iPad mini. And while the September 2021 Event did not give us a freshly baked iPad, just a spec bump, it introduced us to a wholly new iPad mini. Just like the iPad Pro and iPad Air, the iPad mini 6 adopted the full screen and square edge design aesthetics bring it inline with even the iPhone 12 and 13. Apple even gave it a bigger 8.3-inch display. Here’s the iPad mini we have all been waiting for.
The release of the iPad mini 6 in 2021 marked a significant milestone in its evolution, boasting the most considerable design overhaul since the very first generation.
The iPad mini always had a place in my armoury of devices. It sits between my iPhone and the full size iPad as portables go. The latter has since been upgraded from a 9.7-inch iPad Air 2 to a 12.9-inch iPad Pro (2021). And, it is in this big jump in screen size that the iPad mini is still relevant and a useful device to have. More portable than the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, even pocketable as it fits in my jacket pocket (just about). Also, the iPad mini is easier to navigate and view compared to even my 6.7-inch iPhone Pro Max. For these reasons, I was pretty excited when Apple announced the new iPad mini 6. It basically stole the show eventhough it was launched alongside big hitters like iPad, iPhone 13 and 13 Pro and Apple Watch series 7.
Apple iPad mini 6 Highlights
Even though it is now pricier, just like the redesigned iPad Air 4 was pricier than its predecessor, it does have a lot more to offer. Let’s look at the highlights:
1. Revamped Design
Completely new design from ground up. This brings it inline with modern tablets like the iPad Air 4 and iPad Pro 3, 4 and 5.
This meant, full screen design with narrow bezels, square edges and rounded corners, metal chassis that wraps around the screen and available in exciting new colours especially pink, purple and starlight.
2. As compact chassis as before
While there is the increase in display size from 7.9 to 8.3-inch, the dimensions of the device stayed largely the same.
- iPad mini 6: 195.5mm height, 134.8mm width, 6.3mm depth
- iPad mini 5: 203.2mm height, 134.8mm width, 6.1mm depth
As you can see, it even managed to shave a few millimetres (7.7mm) off its height. It now looks more like a shrunken version of the iPad Air 4 than a shrunken version for the standard iPad.
3. Bigger Display and Relocated Touch ID
The iPad mini 6 brought with it a radical change in design, moving away from the rounded edges and home button-centric front face that defined previous generations. Embracing the design language of the more recent iPad Air and iPad Pro models, the mini 6 features a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with narrow bezels, pushing the screen real estate to the edges and offering a more immersive viewing experience.
Back to the screen, it is backed by an LED multi-touch display with IPS technology and a bigger one at that. Growing from 7.9-inch to 8.3 with a high resolution of 2266 x 1488 pixels, it packs more pixels per inch than even the iPad Pro. At 326ppi compared to 264ppi on the iPad Pro, it is super sharp, showing even more details on a small display.
This was a significant jump from the 7.9-inch display of its predecessors, achieved without a substantial increase in the overall size of the device, thanks to the reduced bezel size (see dimensions in earlier section). Just like the iPad Air 4, by squeezing the bezels, it loses the Touch ID or fingerprint sensor offering a clean slate up front. The fingerprint sensor is moved up to the power button on the edge just like in iPad Air 4.
4. Now Supports Apple Pencil 2nd Gen and Magnetic Connector
The new iPad mini is its compatibility with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil. This addition has transformed the iPad mini from a simple tablet to a dynamic creative tool, ideal for artists and professionals who need precision and flexibility in their workflow. The ability to magnetically attach the Apple Pencil to the side of the iPad mini for charging and storage is a thoughtful design touch, enhancing usability and convenience.
The iPad mini 6 also comes with a magnetic dock and charger on the side for Apple Pencil 2. Yes, it supports the new Apple Pencil 2 now, another big leap. This addition has transformed the iPad mini from a simple tablet to a dynamic creative tool, ideal for artists and professionals who need precision and flexibility in their workflow.
Given that the long edge is just about as long as the Apple Pencil 2 when seated on the magnetic charger, the volume rockers had to be relocated. This is now on the same edge as the power button. Those used to the traditional button location may have to come to terms with the buttons new location. Why Apple Pencil 2nd Gen and not 1st Gen that Apple still uses with the iPad 9th Gen (2021) or 10th Gen (2022)? The company has always placed a premium on the iPad mini, reflected in its price so naturally, compatibility with a magnetically chargeable stylus is to be expected. Bottom line is, the ability to magnetically attach the Apple Pencil to the side of the iPad mini for charging and storage is a thoughtful design touch, enhancing usability and convenience.
The new TouchID sensor on the power button, quad firing stereo speakers just like the iPad Pro and magnetic connector are all new to the iPad mini.
5. Performance Under The Hood
Underneath the sleek exterior, the iPad mini 6 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, which is a powerhouse of processing capability. This chip ensures that the mini 6 not only handles everyday tasks with ease but is also capable of managing more intensive applications, from graphic design software to demanding games, making it a versatile tool for both productivity and entertainment. The same chip is used to power all the iPhone 13s and later the iPhone SE, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus and Apple TV 4K. There is just plenty of ‘life’ going for it still in terms of performance.
6. Quad Firing Stereo Speakers
Quad firing stereo speakers have also been added to either side in landscape mode, making a total of four speaker ports. This means, in landscape mode with the screen facing you, on the left you get speaker port, USB-C port, speaker port. While, on the right you get volume buttons, speaker ports and power button / TouchID sensor.
7. Advanced Connectivity and Better Camera
The iPad mini 6 also steps up in terms of connectivity, offering 5G capabilities for ultra-fast internet speeds on the go. This feature makes the mini 6 an excellent choice for those who need to stay connected and productive while mobile. Additionally, the camera system has seen upgrades, with a 12MP rear camera capable of capturing stunning photos and videos, and the front camera improved to a 12MP Ultra Wide sensor, supporting Center Stage during video calls, ensuring you are always in focus.
In the landscape orientation, the bottom long edge is where you find the nano-SIM tray (cellular models only) and magnetic connector for Apple Pencil 2.
That Design Leap and So Much More
The sum it up, the iPad mini 6 is not just an incremental update; it represents a significant leap in the design and functionality of the iPad mini series. With its edge-to-edge display, powerful internals, Apple Pencil support, enhanced connectivity, and improved camera system, the mini 6 stands out as a pinnacle of compact tablet design.
Is the iPad mini 6 (2021) still relevant in 2024
As we move through 2024, the question arises: does the iPad Mini 6 from 2021 still hold its ground in the ever-evolving tech landscape? The answer is a resounding yes, but with nuances worth exploring.
First and foremost, its A15 Bionic chip remains powerful enough to handle the latest applications and software updates, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
The compact size continues to be a significant selling point, offering a unique balance between screen real estate and portability that many users find ideal for reading, gaming, and productivity tasks on the go.
Also, Apple’s commitment to providing software updates has kept the iPad Mini 6 current, with the latest operating system features and security enhancements. This continued support ensures that the device remains useful and efficient, extending its lifespan beyond typical gadget cycles.
Having said that we are expecting a new iPad mini (7) at the end of 2024 at the earliest if not in 2025. However, it is unlikely that there will be any major upgrade to the current model. It will likely maintain its current design with the iPad mini 7 being powered by the latest Apple silicone on par with iPhone 16 Pro but we will just have to wait and see.
