iPhone 13 mini: «Finally, that’s it for today!»

I actually expected my interview partner to be down in the dumps. After all, the iPhone 13 mini has been kicked out of the line-up at Apple and replaced by new models. But instead, I chat with a very relaxed smartphone.

Mornin’, you’re drinking a beer already? It’s only 1 pm.
iPhone 13 mini: Mornin! If not now, when? Cheers by the way.

Cheers! Then you’re not at all sad that Apple isn’t selling you any more?
Nope, not at all. Admittedly, I was ticked off at first because I also didn’t find out about my retirement until the keynote. But that’s just how it is in big companies. Those who are affected are presented with a fait accompli. And honestly, I’m glad it’s all over. Finally, that’s it for today!

Why’s that?
In our last interview, I already mentioned how much it bothers me that smartphones are all about «higher, faster, further». That put quite a bit of pressure on me. There were weeks when I couldn’t find my way into sleep mode because I felt incapable. Just look at me. I still have a lightning connector and no USB-C. I’m so behind.

What do you make of the iPhone 15 series?
I think they’re great! After all, they’re kind of like my grandchildren. And you always think your own grandchildren are great, don’t you?

Seriously though?
All in all, the titanium casing for the Pro is a fine touch. Solid and lightweight at the same time. And the new individually assignable action button also fits in the zeitgeist. After all, the younger generation has to be much more flexible these days than I was in my day.

What do you think of the trend that the price of certain iPhones has barely changed since 2017?
Difficult subject. Now that I’m retired, I can say it. I always thought we were overpriced. There are much better value manufacturers that also produce high-quality smartphones. But Apple is a brand that also likes to have its name paid for. Apple stands for a high-priced lifestyle. In this respect, I’m surprised that the prices for certain top models like the cheapest Pro don’t increase.

Do you have any idea why that is?
Haha, if you were hoping for insider information now, I have to disappoint you. I’ve no idea.

How do you spend your newfound free time?
I just live each day as it comes. At night I recharge my battery and then every morning I decide anew what I feel like doing. I delete unnecessary apps, sort photo albums or compose ringtones. And if I don’t feel like doing anything, I stay in flight mode all day and am off.

Sounds dreamy… Don’t you feel a little lonely too?
Not at all. I recently encountered an iPhone XR in my owner’s drawer. We’ve become friends and plan to go on vacation together soon. To the island of forgotten smartphones. It’ll be so much fun!

I can see you’re enjoying your retirement. Have a great vacation and I hope we never hear from each other again.
iPhone 13 mini: I hope so too. See ya!

Author’s note: the cover photo is so blurry because it was shot on the iPhone XR. And the thing had already had multiple beers with the 13 mini in the run-up.