Apple is reportedly planning a massive display upgrade for its next iPad mini, switching from IPS LCD to OLED technology.
According to recent leaks, the company is currently testing Samsung-made OLED panels, hinting at a significant improvement in screen quality. If true, this upgrade would deliver richer colors, deeper blacks, and improved contrast, making it a highly anticipated enhancement for the compact tablet.
iPad Mini With OLED Expected in 2026
Rumors suggest the next iPad mini will launch in 2026, following a two-year gap since its predecessor’s release in October 2023. Initially, there were expectations that the 2024 iPad mini would adopt an OLED panel, but that did not materialize, pushing the OLED transition to the next generation.
Apple’s decision to invest in OLED for its smallest tablet suggests strong sales for the iPad mini line. Additionally, reports indicate that the iPad Air will also receive an OLED upgrade in 2026, meaning that by next year, all iPads except the entry-level model could feature OLED displays.
What to Expect From the iPad Mini’s OLED Panel
While the move to OLED is exciting, the iPad mini is unlikely to feature the high-end LTPO or Tandem OLED technology used in Apple’s Pro models.
Instead, it will likely sport a single-stack LTPS OLED panel, which offers good brightness and color accuracy but lacks high refresh rates—a feature Apple will likely keep exclusive to its premium iPad Pro lineup.
Apple’s OLED Future: A Step Forward for iPads
With Apple gradually shifting more iPads to OLED technology, the next iPad mini could mark an important step in the lineup’s evolution.
While pricing details remain unknown, the OLED upgrade will likely make the iPad mini an even more attractive option for those seeking a compact yet high-quality tablet experience. As we approach 2026, more leaks and official announcements should shed light on Apple’s next-generation iPad lineup.