A major upgrade for the iPad mini.

The iPad mini is expected to be the first non-Pro device to switch to an OLED display. Sources further reveal that Samsung Display has been developing this panel since 2024.

The earliest version of the iPad mini with an OLED screen will be released in late 2026. Photo: AppleInsider .

On Weibo, the Instant Digital account revealed that Apple plans to equip the iPad mini line with OLED displays. The source added that there is currently no indication that the iPad Air will switch to this display technology.

According to Instant Digital, the earliest release date for an iPad mini with an OLED screen is expected in Q3 or Q4 of 2026.

Numerous previous reports have confirmed or hinted that an OLED iPad mini is in development, and all point to the same timeframe: late 2026.

Specifically, starting in May 2024, initial rumors indicated that Samsung Display had begun developing new display panels for the iPad mini, including an OLED screen variant.

Subsequently, several reputable sources, including Ross Young, Digital Chat Station, and Bloomberg, confirmed that the iPad mini would be the first non-Pro device to switch to an OLED display.

Similar to the iPhone or iPad Pro, OLED technology offers more realistic colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast than LCD. While OLED has been available since the iPhone X, Apple only integrated this technology into the iPad Pro last year.

In addition to the OLED screen, analyst Mark Gurman says Apple is also designing a new casing for the iPad mini with water resistance, similar to recent iPhone models.

"Apple is developing a speaker system that uses vibration technology. This change allows for the elimination of speaker holes through which water could enter."

"This approach differs from the water-resistant design on the iPhone, which retains the speaker grille but adds gaskets and adhesive to prevent damage," Gurman wrote.

The latest generation of iPad mini, launched in late 2024, features the A17 Pro chip and supports Apple Intelligence. The product design remains unchanged from its predecessor.

Source: https://znews.vn/nang-cap-lon-cho-ipad-mini-post1606261.html