Apple is cheaping out on the expensive new iPad mini

The latest iPad mini from Apple boasts impressive upgrades, but falls short in one crucial area. With its 8.5-inch OLED display, thinner frame, and powerful A20 Pro chip, the mini appears to be a significant leap forward. However, Apple chose not to include ProMotion variable refresh rate technology, a feature that has become a hallmark on their other devices.

While the 60 Hz screen size was a dealbreaker for the reporter in their previous iPad mini, they argue that the absence of ProMotion on this newer model is a significant omission. Apple first introduced ProMotion on the iPad Pro ten years ago, but only applied it to the OLED screens, which likely explains the decision on the new mini.

The LTPS panels used in the mini are less power-efficient and lack the flexibility of LTPO technology, making it difficult to implement ProMotion without compromising on battery life and efficiency. Despite the premium price tag of $699 for a 128 GB model, Apple may have felt that the cost savings were worth foregoing the ProMotion feature.

However, the reporter believes this decision was a missed opportunity, as the iPad mini is already a niche product and the extra cost may not have significantly impacted sales. The addition of ProMotion would have differentiated the mini from the 11-inch iPad Pro and positioned it as a more versatile touch-first device, similar to the iPhone Duo.