Apple Could Launch an iPad Mini with OLED Display in 2026, Report Claims
Apple’s iPad mini, known for its compact size and impressive performance, might be getting a significant upgrade soon. According to a report by Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, the tech giant plans to introduce an OLED display to the iPad mini as early as next year. This change could give the tablet a considerable edge over its competitors.
### OLED Display: A Major Visual Upgrade
Currently, the iPad mini features an LCD screen. The shift to OLED technology promises better contrast, richer colors, and an overall improved viewing experience. If Apple follows through, the upgrade could make the iPad mini a surprise hit in 2026.
The iPad mini already enjoys a loyal user base, especially among those who find the iPad Air too large or the iPad Pro too expensive. However, it has often missed out on features that come with Apple’s higher-end models. The addition of an OLED screen would bring the smallest iPad up to par visually and help it compete more effectively with rival tablets.
### New Design Features and Improved Waterproofing
In addition to the OLED display, Apple is reportedly working on making the future iPad mini fully waterproof. This would involve redesigning the casing and implementing a new speaker system that uses vibration-related technology instead of traditional speaker holes. According to Gurman, this is a different approach compared to the waterproofing methods used in Apple’s top iPhones but could add another appealing feature to the iPad mini.
### Potential Price Increase
There is a downside, however. Gurman’s report suggests that the improved display technology may lead to higher prices. An increase of around $100 is possible, potentially pushing the starting price of the iPad mini to $599 (approximately £450 / AU$900).
### OLED May Expand to Other Apple Devices
The iPad mini is not the only Apple product expected to receive an OLED upgrade. Gurman also mentions plans to bring OLED displays to the iPad Air and the MacBook Air. However, the MacBook Air is unlikely to see this update before 2028. The iPad Air’s transition to OLED is expected sometime after its anticipated spring 2026 refresh, possibly coinciding with the iPad mini’s upgrade.
### OLED Already Popular in Apple’s Product Line
OLED technology has been well received in Apple’s iPad Pro and iPhone models and has been a staple in the Apple Watch since its launch. If the iPad mini joins this list next year, it could significantly boost customer satisfaction across Apple’s tablet lineup.
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https://www.techradar.com/tablets/ipad-mini/the-oled-ipad-mini-could-be-the-surprise-tablet-hit-of-2026-if-these-rumors-are-true
