The much-anticipated release of the iPad Mini 7 has generated plenty of buzz, and for good reason. After numerous complaints surrounding the “jelly scrolling” issue in the iPad Mini 6, many users have eagerly awaited Apple’s seventh iteration of the device to see if the issue has been resolved. Early reviews suggest that Apple may have addressed the problem, but with a significant caveat that continues to spark conversation among tech enthusiasts.
What is Jelly Scrolling, and Why Was it Such a Big Deal?
For those unfamiliar, jelly scrolling refers to a phenomenon where one side of the screen refreshes slightly slower than the other. This creates a noticeable and often annoying “wobble” effect when scrolling, especially in portrait orientation. This issue was particularly prevalent in the iPad Mini 6, which caused frustration for some users while leaving others unaffected. Apple initially downplayed the issue, stating that it was normal behavior for LCD screens.
However, for users who noticed the effect, it became a major pain point, often leading to eye strain and a less-than-ideal user experience. The jelly scrolling issue was especially prominent in portrait mode, and it led to a class-action lawsuit filed in early 2022 by disgruntled customers who felt that Apple had been aware of the issue but failed to address it appropriately.
iPad Mini 7: What Has Changed?
The seventh-generation iPad Mini, launched in October 2024, comes with several hardware improvements, including the A17 Pro chip and a few subtle design changes. However, what caught the most attention was whether Apple had fixed the jelly scrolling issue. According to several reviewers and sources, it appears that Apple has indeed made some changes to the display hardware to mitigate, if not entirely eliminate, the issue.
While Apple has not directly addressed the jelly scrolling fix in its official communication, tech insiders suggest that Apple rotated the display controller in the iPad Mini 7, which has likely reduced the problem. Reports from early users and reviewers seem to confirm that the issue is far less noticeable in the new model. According to Jason Snell from the Six Colors Podcast, the fix is likely related to changes in the internal design of the iPad, with the display controller now mounted differently.
The Major Exception: Jelly Scrolling Still Exists in Some Scenarios
Despite the improvements, it’s important to note that jelly scrolling has not been entirely eradicated. While the issue appears to be much less prominent in the iPad Mini 7, some early users have pointed out that the effect can still be observed under certain conditions, particularly when scrolling rapidly in portrait mode. This suggests that while Apple has made significant strides in reducing the problem, it hasn’t been completely resolved.
For some users, this may not be a deal-breaker, as the jelly effect is far less noticeable than it was in the iPad Mini 6. However, for those who are particularly sensitive to screen tearing, the issue could still be an irritant, especially during prolonged use in portrait orientation.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Reviews of the iPad Mini 7 have been mostly positive, with many noting the reduction of jelly scrolling as a welcome improvement. Several tech bloggers and YouTubers who have had hands-on time with the device report that the new iPad Mini delivers a more fluid and enjoyable scrolling experience compared to its predecessor.
However, there are also those who remain cautious. Tech enthusiasts on platforms like Reddit have voiced concerns that while the problem has been reduced, it may still pose an issue for users who are particularly sensitive to screen inconsistencies. Others on Quora have expressed frustration that Apple hasn’t issued a more definitive fix, particularly after the backlash the iPad Mini 6 received.
Is the iPad Mini 7 Worth It?
So, should you invest in the iPad Mini 7, especially if you were put off by the jelly scrolling issues in the previous model? The answer depends largely on how much the issue bothered you in the first place.
For users who were heavily impacted by the jelly scrolling in the iPad Mini 6, the improvements made in the iPad Mini 7 might not be enough. While the issue is significantly reduced, it hasn’t been entirely eliminated, and for some, the minor wobble effect could still be a concern.
On the other hand, if you weren’t particularly bothered by the issue in the iPad Mini 6 or you’re looking for a compact tablet with improved performance and updated hardware, the iPad Mini 7 is likely a solid choice. It boasts an array of upgrades, including better processing power, enhanced battery life, and compatibility with Apple’s latest features, making it a compelling option for both casual users and professionals on the go.
Final Thoughts
The iPad Mini 7 brings a host of improvements to Apple’s small tablet lineup, addressing one of the most significant complaints about its predecessor. While jelly scrolling has not been entirely eliminated, the problem has been significantly reduced, which will likely satisfy the majority of users.
That said, if you are someone who is particularly sensitive to screen tearing, it may be worth waiting for further user feedback or trying the device in-store before making a purchase. Apple’s reluctance to fully acknowledge the issue in its official communications may also leave some potential buyers feeling hesitant.
Ultimately, the iPad Mini 7 offers a powerful and portable tablet experience, but whether it’s the right device for you will depend on how much weight you give to the jelly scrolling issue. For most users, the improvements in performance and usability will likely outweigh the lingering, albeit diminished, presence of jelly scrolling.
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