iPad Mini 8 expected to launch with OLED display, water-resistant build

Currently, Apple offers OLED panels on its iPhones, iPad Pro, and Watch series. Rumours suggest that the Cupertino giant is planning to bring OLED screens to more of its devices starting next year. A new report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals that the next-generation iPad Mini, expected to debut in 2026, will come equipped with an OLED display.

iPad Mini 8: What to expect

As per the report, the upcoming iPad Mini 8, codenamed J510, will feature an OLED screen instead of the LCD panel that Apple has used in previous generations.

For those unaware, OLED screens deliver deeper blacks and more vibrant colours by lighting each pixel individually. They offer better contrast, improved power efficiency, and wider viewing angles compared to LCDs.

Gurman also mentioned that the iPad Mini 8 will include a new speaker system with vibration technology, potentially eliminating speaker holes. This design change could result in a sleeker, water-resistant build similar to recent iPhones.

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The inclusion of an OLED panel may also lead to a price increase. Reports suggest that the iPad Mini 8 could cost around $100 more than its predecessor.

Other Apple devices with OLED screens

According to Gurman, Apple is also testing OLED panels for the iPad Air and the M5 chip-powered MacBook Air. However, the iPad Air and MacBook Air models expected in 2026 will reportedly continue to feature LCD screens. At present, there are no plans to bring OLED MacBook Pro technology to the entry-level iPad lineup.

Additionally, there are no near-term plans for a MacBook Pro with an OLED screen. Apple is, however, said to be working on an 18-inch foldable iPad featuring a flexible OLED display, which could debut around 2028.

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Would you be interested in purchasing an iPad Mini with an OLED screen? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.