Will Procreate App Work on Your Apple iPad Mini A1455?

Are you a creative artist looking to get the most out of your iPad Mini A1455, specifically for using the popular app Procreate? Understanding the app's compatibility and requirements is crucial for ensuring you can use its full features. In this article, we will guide you through the compatibility of the Procreate app with your iPad Mini A1455 and what alternatives you might consider.

Understanding Procreate's Requirements

The Procreate app, a highly regarded application in the digital arts community, has specific device requirements that must be met for it to function properly. To run the latest version, Procreate Version 5, you need an iPad model that supports iOS 13.2 or later. This means that your Apple iPad Mini model A1455, which is the iPad Mini 2, is not compatible with this app.

The iPad Mini 2: An Outdated Device

The iPad Mini 2, like all first-generation iPad Minis, can only be updated to iOS 9 due to its 32-bit architecture. This limits its capabilities, as iOS 13.2, required by Procreate, is significantly more recent. Additionally, the iPad Mini 2 is not compatible with the Apple Pencil, as it only supports the 1st generation Apple Pencil, which has some design flaws.

Compatible iPad Models for Procreate

A list of iPad models that can run Procreate, as per the Procreate website's FAQ, includes:

12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation) 11-inch iPad Pro 10.5-inch iPad Pro 9.7-inch iPad Pro iPad 7th generation iPad 6th generation iPad 5th generation iPad mini 5th generation iPad mini 4th generation iPad Air 3rd generation iPad Air 2

Note that some of these iPad models are compatible only with specific Apple Pencil generations. For instance, the iPad models listed above are compatible with the 1st generation or 2nd generation Apple Pencil.

Considerations for Apple Pencil Users

If you are considering obtaining an Apple Pencil for use with Procreate, it's important to understand the different generations and their benefits. Here are some observations and advice based on personal experience:

1st Generation Apple Pencil

Pros: Decent writing and painting experience, particularly when used with Procreate. Cons: Difficult charging process (uses the iPad charging port and sticks out), easy to lose the cap and the charging adapter.

A solution to the inconvenience of the 1st generation Apple Pencil charging process is to purchase an aftermarket sleeve. This sleeve can hold the cap and adapter on the end of the Apple Pencil, making it easier to manage and store. Additionally, some users find it easier to just plug the Apple Pencil directly into the iPad's charging port for convenience.

2nd Generation Apple Pencil

Pros: Snap-in connection on the side of the iPad, wireless charging, no lose cap and charger. Cons: Not all iPad models are compatible with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.

The 2nd generation Apple Pencil is generally considered a significant improvement over the 1st generation. Its design allows for a more seamless and integrated experience with the iPad. Many users appreciate its magnetic snap-in design, wireless charging, and the fact that it comes with a cap that doesn't easily get lost.

Conclusion

Given the limitations of your iPad Mini A1455, you may want to consider getting a newer iPad model that meets the required specifications for Procreate, such as the iPad Mini 4 or later. If you are still enthusiastic about using the Apple Pencil with Procreate, it might be worth considering the 2nd generation Apple Pencil for its improved usability and design.