OLED iPad mini debuts with A20 Pro chip and speakers hidden behind the display

Apple’s compact iPad mini is receiving its biggest overhaul in years, combining an OLED screen, newer silicon, and a more ambitious audio system in a thinner body. The update makes the smallest iPad feel more current, but buyers should pay attention to the chip differences between storage options.

The 2026 iPad mini uses Apple’s A20 Pro chip, though not every version is identical. The 128GB and 256GB configurations receive a binned variant with five CPU cores instead of six. Apple’s specifications also indicate one fewer efficiency core and reduced NPU performance on those models. The 512GB version gets the more complete chip, while the rest of the hardware remains the same.

Lower-storage iPad mini models ship with a cut-down A20 Pro.

The display is the centerpiece. Apple equips the new mini with an 8.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel at 2,316 x 1,512 pixels. Refresh rate stays at 60Hz, so ProMotion remains unavailable on the smallest iPad. The panel offers thinner bezels, up to 1,200 nits of peak brightness, and optional nano-texture glass for less glare. Stylus support includes Apple Pencil Pro and the USB-C Apple Pencil, while a 12MP Center Stage camera is positioned for landscape use.

Audio is another notable change. Apple moved the dual speakers under the display and uses what it calls an “Acoustic Display” setup. The company claims the design provides stronger bass and higher volume. Custom tweeters are tucked between the glass and aluminum frame to improve high-frequency clarity.

The new model is thinner and lighter than before at 5.4mm and 255 grams, compared with 6.3mm and 297 grams for the previous iPad mini. Wi-Fi 7 is included, and cellular versions support sub-6GHz 5G through eSIM and Apple’s C2 modem. Apple also rates the tablet for IP67 dust and water resistance.

Power comes from an 18.9Wh battery charged through USB-C. Apple says using a 35W or higher adapter can reach 50% in 30 minutes. The port also supports USB 3 data speeds up to 10Gb/s.

Color choices are limited to Midnight and Starlight.

Apple’s new iPad mini arrives in two classic finishes.

Pricing begins at $699, €749, or £699 for the 128GB Wi-Fi model. The 256GB version costs $799, €879, or £799, while the 512GB model is $999, €1,129, or £999. Cellular variants add to the price at each storage level.

Pre-orders open October 28, with the first deliveries expected on November 6.