One of Apple’s Most Cultish Products May Be Getting the Upgrade It Deserves

During Apple's 2024 iPad event a few weeks back, a particular line in Tim Cook's closing remarks caught my attention. After listening to various Apple executives talk for over half an hour about the major updates to the iPad lineup, it was up to Cook to briefly summarize Apple’s future vision for their tablets.

"We're thrilled about the new iPad lineup," Cook announced. "We have a more affordable entry-level iPad with an all-screen design, the iPad Air now available in two sizes for the first time, the incredibly thin and powerful iPad Pro, and, of course, the small but mighty iPad Mini. This is the strongest iPad lineup we've ever had."

One could argue that Cook had to mention the iPad Mini if Apple still intended to sell it. What wasn’t explicitly stated during the event, though, was that the cheapest iPad was also being officially discontinued. However, for the dedicated iPad Mini fans around the world, including myself, Cook's words provided a glimmer of hope that Apple still sees a future for the small but powerful tablet.

New rumors suggest that Apple is planning a significant upgrade for the iPad Mini by introducing an OLED display. These speculations arise from observations within the supply chain. Reports from Korea-based ET News and ZDNet Korea indicate that Samsung Display, which currently supplies the OLED panels for the iPad Pro, has begun working on 8-inch prototypes for the iPad Mini. This change might slightly increase the screen size, likely due to reduced bezels rather than a larger tablet.

However, the rumors suggest that this new display won't feature the same advanced tandem OLED technology recently introduced in the new iPad Pros. Nevertheless, any upgrade to the current screen, often criticized for its noticeable jelly scroll effect, would be welcomed by fans. Unfortunately, it appears that this transition to OLED won't occur until 2026.

Considering the iPad Mini's last update was in September 2021, a five-year wait for new changes would be unexpected. Yet, it's worth noting that Apple previously waited nearly five years between the iPad Mini 3 and 4 updates, which led many to speculate that the line might be phased out.

There is some evidence suggesting the iPad Mini could see at least a minor update before 2026. Last October, Apple Insider and MacRumors reported on battery regulatory filings from Apple, hinting at an imminent new iPad Mini. This update might only involve a processor upgrade, but fans are hopeful that Apple’s more substantial plans for the Mini will be realized sooner.