iPad Mini - a step backwards?

[Diggah]

I've been reading a few articles on the new iPad Mini but curious as to others thoughts.

Personally I think its a bit of step backwards for Apple. Granted its still massively overpriced, but the iPad is still a desirable item (mostly due to the stability of its app store I suspect). However I think their being different and not trying to ape the rest of the pack is what made Apple stand out.

Now don't get me wrong, Im no fanboi and am quite happy with my gaming PC, but I have to admire Apples marketing.. until now.

[randomman]

I reckon the Ipod nano 7th gen is also a step backward, i like my 6th gen more

[Gordy]

If by step backwards you mean selling a metric ton of them.... Then I agree..

I've owned full iPads and a nexus 7, but I'd choose my iPad mini over them every time. For my needs an iPad is too close in size to my mba 11in, to be something I take around with me. The mini is so small and portable, it goes out of the house everyday. I use it far more and find it a much better device than the larger iPad. YMMV

From the number of clients who are buying them, I'd say Apple were bang on with the mini. The pricing in the £200's means that it is much more of a whim purchase. If they hit a sub £200 price in the future, all other tablets will have a hard time competing.

[samuraiweasel]

Apple sell a metric ton anyways, its the chic factor, but this coming after Jobs saying that 7 in was never gonna happen - so they made it slightly bigger, is funny to me...

[jchick]

It is a marketing ploy to release something new when it is basically the same thing.

[shaithis]

I think they are starting to see why Android is selling so well and swallowing their pride.

People want choice, not to be told "it's this way or nothing"....and the tablet market is divided on size. Most people who use their tab on the move want ~7" models, those who sit around with them at home normally want 10". Apple had to make the mini or lose a lot of sales and momentum.

[Syd]

And I think it was a great move, have to agree with Gordy and say that the new ipad mini in the housemaster replaced the ipad 3 as the 'go to' tablet !

[Stringent]

I don't think it was a step backwards except in one thing. The display. I understand keeping the 1024x768 iPad 2 resolution (apps, cpu capability in a smaller factor, heat issues, weight issues if 'retina' used etc) but it is a downside. However the form factor and design I love.

I would expect a 'retina' version this year though. It needs it, particularly as the Nexus 7 and other tablets around the same size have a better looking display.

[Stevo122]

The iPad Mini is a step backward if you have owned an iPad before, but as a stand alone device its good

[michaelf33713]

My wife has an ipod mini and she loves it. The $300 price point makes it seem like a more reasonable price for a ipad. Please the small size makes it easier to carry in her purse and more comfortable for smaller hands.