iPad mini A5 2012

As characterized by Apple, the iPad mini line is a "concentration" of its larger predecessors, offering a more compact device with a display that matches the pixel count of the original iPad (1st Gen) or iPad 2, though fewer than the Retina display-equipped iPad 3rd Gen or 4th Gen.

All original iPad mini (1st Gen) models, including this Wi-Fi only A1432 version, are equipped with a 7.9-inch 1024x768 (163 ppi) LED-backlit IPS touch-sensitive display. They are powered by a dual-core 1 GHz Apple A5 processor, have 512 MB of RAM, and were offered with 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of flash storage. The devices feature dual cameras: a rear-mounted 5-megapixel "iSight" camera for stills and 1080p video, and a front-mounted 1.2-megapixel "FaceTime HD" camera for stills and 720p video. They also include dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and stereo speakers. The Lightning port is used for power and computer connectivity.

The battery life for this iPad mini is estimated at 10 hours of "surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music."

Please be aware that this Wi-Fi Only model (A1432) does not have 4G LTE or A-GPS capabilities.

Initially, this model was available with a black front and a "slate" back, or a white front and a silver back. On October 22, 2013, Apple replaced the black/slate option with a black front and a medium-toned "Space Gray" back. This "Space Gray" version was sold only with 16 GB of storage and has a unique order number (MF432LL/A).

The first-generation iPad mini was evaluated as a successful attempt by Apple to enter the smaller tablet market, offering a concentration, rather than a reduction of the full-sized iPad experience. Its most lauded attribute was its design; it was remarkably thin and light, making it exceptionally portable and comfortable to hold in one hand. While its 7.9-inch display shared the same 1024x768 resolution as the iPad 2, the higher pixel density made text and images appear sharper. The performance, powered by an A5 chip and 512MB of RAM, was considered adequate for basic tasks like web browsing, reading, and light gaming, though it was noticeably less powerful than the contemporary full-sized iPad. Major criticisms focused on the lack of a Retina display, which was becoming standard on other Apple products, and the use of the older A5 processor. Despite these shortcomings, it was praised for its solid build quality, excellent battery life, and vast app ecosystem. It successfully filled the gap between the iPhone and the larger iPad, offering a compelling package for users who prioritized portability and a lower entry price into the iOS world.