Apple plans to refresh the iPad mini lineup by redesigning the front camera and enhancing the device's water resistance.
Apple is likely to release a new iPad mini model featuring an OLED display for the first time. Recent Apple code reveals the device will use the A20 Pro chip, reposition the front camera for horizontal orientation, and employ a new speaker system.
Mark Gurman, a Bloomberg reporter, expects the device to be available by the end of October 2026.
This information was discovered by Aaron Perris, co-author at MacRumors, on 25 September. The code includes images of the new iPad mini's front, but the back and sides remain unseen. Earlier reports were uncertain whether the chip would be A19 Pro or A20 Pro, but the code specifies A20 Pro.
The current iPad mini, released in October 2024, uses the A17 Pro chip. The new chip will clearly enhance performance and may enable advanced Siri AI features similar to those in iOS 27.
The code also indicates the front camera will move to the long edge of the device for horizontal use, making the iPad mini the last iPad model to adopt this camera placement. There is a small notch at the top edge of the screen glass, likely for the speaker, while the volume and power buttons remain on top.
Details about the speakers align with Gurman's previous reports that the new iPad mini will use a vibration speaker system, eliminating the need for speaker holes and improving water resistance. This contrasts with the iPhone, which still has speaker holes sealed with gaskets and adhesive to prevent water ingress.
Bloomberg also reported that Apple has tested a new design making the iPad mini as water-resistant as the iPhone. This is particularly beneficial for users who read e-books on the iPad mini, as water resistance is a key selling point for dedicated e-readers like the Kindle.
The biggest change in the iPad mini remains its display. Multiple sources agree the new model will switch from an LCD to an OLED screen, resulting in deeper blacks, more vivid colors, and improved contrast. The screen size will be slightly larger. Apple first introduced OLED on the iPhone X in 2017 and expanded to iPad Pro in 2024.
Bloomberg reports this iPad mini will be the most significant redesign in five years. However, it is still unclear whether the new screen will support ProMotion technology with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Regarding timing, the iPad mini was not featured at Apple's September event, leading to speculation that it may launch separately in October. It is uncertain whether this will be accompanied by an event or just a press release.