The next iPad mini may feature a larger OLED display

New information about the next-generation iPad mini has surfaced online, and if confirmed, the compact tablet will receive its most significant update in years. Sources from suppliers claim that the eighth-generation iPad mini is scheduled for release in the third quarter of 2026, with a full announcement expected later in the year.

The tablet is rumored to feature an 8.5-inch OLED display, slightly larger than the current 8.3-inch panel. Despite the larger screen size, the case size may remain unchanged due to smaller bezels. Apple is said to have chosen an LTPS panel because it is cheaper than the LTPO panels used in the iPad Pro, keeping production costs down.

Internal changes will be no less significant. The A17 Pro processor is expected to be replaced by the A19 Pro, which is already used in the iPhone 17 Pro lineup. This could result in a performance boost, especially in games, of nearly 70% compared to the current generation.

Despite the upgrade, the price of the most affordable model may remain the same: $499 for the 256GB version. Rumor has it that Apple will achieve this by using an LTPS display and possibly opting for a scaled-down version of the A19 Pro with five-core graphics, similar to the chip found in the iPhone Air.