Apple Ipad Mini review

Operating system
The Ipad Mini runs Apple's latest mobile operating system, IOS 6, which recently made its debut on the Iphone 5.

IOS 6, like previous iterations of Apple's mobile operating system, is extremely easy to use compared to Google's Android operating system, which we think will tempt customers looking for a simple, easy to use tablet. However, it's worth noting that it doesn't offer the freedom of Google's mobile operating system, as it is somewhat lacking in customisation options.

It's also worth noting that IOS 6 comes with Apple's pitiful Maps application, which struggles to determine its right from its left. However, it's unlikely that many people will be using the Ipad Mini to get directions while walking down the street, so this shouldn't prove to much of an issue.

While Apple's Maps application is disappointing, apps are actually one of the Ipad Mini's strong points. Unlike Android, Apple's IOS software comes with hundreds of thousands of apps optimised for tablet devices, and the Itunes Store is home to pretty much every application you could ever want or need. As soon as we got our mitts on the tablet we promptly downloaded BBC Iplayer, Netflix, Facebook and Twitter, all of which popped up in the app store immediately.

In terms of software, the Ipad Mini is also great for those already tied into the Apple ecosystem - those with an Iphone, Macbook or Apple TV, for example - thanks to Apple's Icloud integration. Although you only get a meagre 5GB of free storage, this means you can easily transfer images, music and apps between your Apple branded devices, while those with an Apple TV will be able to fire content straight to their larger-screened HD TV.

Check out our full IOS 6 review.

Next: Cameras, battery and storage