Apple is reportedly planning a major iPad Air upgrade with an OLED display, M5 chip, and a possible design overhaul inspired by the upcoming iPad mini.
Apple could be preparing the biggest upgrade to the iPad Air in years, with reports suggesting the tablet will receive a redesigned chassis and its first-ever OLED display when the next-generation model launches in early 2027.
According to MacRumors, the iPad Air has retained the same external design since 2020, making it the longest-running design in Apple’s current tablet portfolio. While Apple has refreshed the tablet with newer M-series processors over the years, its overall appearance has remained unchanged.
OLED display expected to debut on iPad Air
The biggest expected upgrade is the adoption of an OLED display, marking the first time the iPad Air will move away from LCD technology.
Samsung Display is reportedly set to supply single-stack LTPS OLED panels, which are expected to offer improved contrast, deeper blacks, and richer colours compared to the current display. However, these panels are likely to be more affordable than the tandem OLED technology used in the latest iPad Pro models, resulting in slightly lower brightness levels.
The upcoming iPad Air is also rumoured to be powered by Apple’s M5 chip, delivering faster performance and improved efficiency.
Design overhaul could follow iPad Pro strategy
Apple’s transition to OLED could also pave the way for a completely redesigned iPad Air. When the company introduced OLED technology to the iPad Pro in 2024, it simultaneously unveiled a significantly thinner chassis and refreshed design.
Industry observers believe Apple may follow a similar approach with the iPad Air, although no official details have been confirmed.
iPad mini may hint at Apple’s future design
Reports indicate that the upcoming iPad mini 8, expected later this year, could introduce several new features, including a redesigned chassis, OLED display, vibration-based speaker system that removes traditional speaker holes, and water resistance.
Since the iPad Air and iPad mini have shared a similar design language for several generations, analysts believe the next iPad Air could adopt many of these features if Apple continues its current design strategy.
No official confirmation yet
Despite growing speculation, there is currently no confirmation that Apple will redesign the iPad Air in 2027. However, the expected shift to OLED technology and the addition of the M5 chip would represent the most significant upgrade to the tablet in years.
If Apple follows the same design philosophy expected for the next-generation iPad mini, future iPad Air models could also benefit from enhanced durability, improved audio technology, and a refreshed exterior.