With respect, I think this article is more click bait (timing of launch announcement) than about minimalism. And by commenting here I've fallen into that trap.

If minimalism is the goal then surely the SE better suits the bill. Its mentioned but quickly dismissed as a glorified 5S and would be skittering. It has the same processor as an iPhone 11Pro. Hardly low performance.

Sure the iPhone 12 mini is a much better overall package than the SE (e.g. much bigger screen for similar form factor), but its also a lot more expensive; 75% more. If this article is really about minimalism then why not compare and contrast the two options?

And an opportunity for us to purchase many more new accessories, that just doesn’t seem necessary any more.

We are so easily hooked by bright and shiny. That being said, the iPhone Mini looks an amazing phone.