Apple's iPad Mini Just Got Improved—Small Tablet Rumored to Drop with OLED Screen in 2026

The last time we heard about the iPad mini was about the iPad Mini 7's 20W charging speed. However, Apple did not give what fans wanted: an OLED display. This iteration still uses the traditional IPS LCD technology.

Regarding the next iPad mini version, a reliable tipster said that the Cupertino giant may place the smaller tablet on par with more expensive iPads in terms of display quality without sacrificing its handy size. The best feature to come? An OLED screen.

OLED Display To Arrive On iPad Mini In 2026

Apple's iPad Mini Just Got Improved—Small Tablet Rumored to Drop

Apple enthusiasts who appreciate the portability of the iPad mini have one good reason to be excited. The iPhone maker is said to be preparing to release a new iPad mini in 2026 with an OLED screen, a development that's long been rumored, according to Digital Station on Weibo.

The 2024 iPad mini was initially supposed to have OLED, but that didn't materialize. Today, it appears Apple is finally set to release this highly awaited improvement.

OLED displays have richer colors, deeper blacks, and improved contrast than LCDs. Tipping the iPad mini technology to this display technology promises viewers a significantly better viewing experience, perfect for streaming, reading, and even gaming.

Why Apple Is Betting on OLED for the Mini?

Apple was still hesitant to invest in OLED for the iPad mini 7, but there's nothing to hold back anymore this time. Despite its compact size, the iPad mini continues to appeal to consumers, particularly those seeking power and portability without the heft of larger tablets.

If the rumors are true, OLED adoption in Apple's tablet range is slowly gathering pace. The iPad Pro already features OLED displays, and reports indicate the iPad Air might also become a member of the club in 2026.

It seems like this direction is hinting that Apple is moving towards OLED standardization in its high-end tablets while letting the entry-level iPad stick with LCD for cost-effectiveness.

What to Expect from the New iPad Mini OLED Panel

While the switch to OLED is a big step, it won't be the most advanced version of the technology. According to GSM Arena, sources suggest that the iPad mini's display will feature an LTPS (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon) OLED panel, not the more sophisticated LTPO or Tandem OLED options found in flagship devices.

That translates to decent, but not revolutionary, performance. The OLED display will provide respectable brightness and superb color fidelity but might be missing features such as adaptive refresh rates or ultra-high peak brightness, which are reserved for the iPad Pro lineup.

If the iPad mini is your thing, 2026 might be your year. Finally, the Apple tablet will receive the OLED technology for its product line. Though it might not have every high-end feature of its Pro siblings, the new iPad mini does hold the promise of a more color-rich, immersive experience without sacrificing its ultralight charm.