A new supply chain report suggests we can expect Apple to release an OLED iPad mini in 2026, and that the iPad The Air will also be upgraded to OLED during the same period.
It says Samsung has already started developing sample displays intended for use in what will be a significant update to the most exciting of the iPad lineup. up …
OLED-ipad mini in 2026
ZDNet Korea reports that Samsung Display plans to begin mass production in late 2025, suggesting a potential launch in early 2026.
Samsung Display accelerates expansion of OLED IT business. After mass production of OLED panels for the iPad Pro began this year, it was discovered that the company has recently begun developing panels for the iPad mini.
According to industry reports on the 21st, Samsung Display has begun developing samples for Apple's new OLED tablet. iPad Mini, last month.
The same report also mentions the iPad Air with OLED.
Apple is using an expensive and complex form of display technology in the recently released iPad Pro models , and this is reflected in the prices. However, as with most cutting-edge technologies, production will become cheaper over time, allowing it to be introduced into mid-range products.
Consistent with the earlier iPad roadmap
The latest report is consistent with the iPad roadmap laid out last November by ET News:
- 2024: New 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros with OLED and ProMotion.
- 2026: New iPad mini with a larger 8.7-inch display and OLED.
- 2026: New 10.9-inch iPad Air with OLED.
- 2027: New 12.9-inch iPad Air with OLED.
Since then, of course, 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models with OLED displays have been released.
It has been suggested that we will see an interim iPad mini model this year to address the scrolling issues on the iPad mini.
9to5Mac’ Opinion
This latest report is in line with previous reports and our own expectations.
While the iPad mini was once primarily an enterprise device — used for apps like warehouse inventory and electronic order pads for restaurant servers — it has always had a loyal following among those who prefer a more compact form factor.
With the arrival of the 6th generation, the device received a major design refresh, removing the Home button and echoing the design first introduced on the iPad Pro and later the iPad Air. This has greatly increased its appeal in the consumer market.
The iPad mini currently commands a significant price premium over the entry-level iPad — starting at $499 compared to $349 — since it essentially sits next to the iPad Air. The device’s OLED display should allow it to maintain its position in the premium device lineup.
