iPad mini iPad Mini purchase HELP!

[JoeRito]

When iPad first came out, I was hesitant to purchase for the following reasons:
1. No file management
2. Couldn't multitask
3. No expandable storage
4. No way to get Excel files to work on it

Has this changed much in recent models? Is the mini as functional as the standard size iPad? Obviously it doesn't have the retina display. Thx

 

[sim0n]

Yeah they are great, much more convenient than the larger model in my opinion

 

[SeanR1]

When iPad first came out, I was hesitant to purchase for the following reasons:
1. No file management
2. Couldn't multitask
3. No expandable storage
4. No way to get Excel files to work on it

Has this changed much in recent models? Is the mini as functional as the standard size iPad? Obviously it doesn't have the retina display. Thx

1. no change
2. no change
3. no change
4. not sure

 

[Night Spring]

When iPad first came out, I was hesitant to purchase for the following reasons:
1. No file management
2. Couldn't multitask
3. No expandable storage
4. No way to get Excel files to work on it

Has this changed much in recent models? Is the mini as functional as the standard size iPad? Obviously it doesn't have the retina display. Thx

The mini does do everything the full size iPad does, only on a smaller screen.

1. Apps like Dropbox, GoodReader, FileBrowser, etc, help make up for the lack of a native file system.

2. Most apps now have a "suspend and resume" function, which is what is needed when people want to switch between two apps rapidly. Also, there is limited multitasking for apps that need it, such as music apps playing in the background, or Dropbox app transferring files in the background.

3. No change, nor is this likely to ever change. There are, however, wifi hard drives that work with iPads, if you are interested in that kind of a solution

4. There are a number of apps for viewing and editing Office files. Though I understand that if you have a really complex document, not all of it might convert properly. But for simpler documents, you shouldn't have much trouble.

 

[JoeRito]

The mini does do everything the full size iPad does, only on a smaller screen.

This is the kind of feedback I need... many thanks. I'm more comfortable now than ever... we use these in business now, that helps as there are numerous enterprise apps out there and iPads are even supported internally.

I guess the big question is whether or not to wait for mini 2... retina? Love the form factor at 7.9".