After years of waiting, fans are finally going to get something they’ve been asking for. Early leaks indicate Apple’s long-awaited visual upgrade won’t change one familiar limitation.
New leaks from Instant Digital (via Weibo) and yeux1122 (via Naver) suggest the iPad mini 8 is on its way. According to reports, the new model will feature an 8.5-inch LTPS OLED screen instead of LCD, offering richer contrast and deeper blacks.
It is rumoured that Apple plans to make a significant spec jump under the hood. The mini may be equipped with the same A19 Pro chip used in the iPhone 17 Pro models, which would deliver far more power than most small-tablet owners will ever need. According to the leaks, the device will be released in the second half of 2026. If Apple sticks to its schedule, the Mini 8 could become the first compact OLED tablet from Apple if the once-rumoured OLED iPad Air upgrade does not materialise.
This is the refresh rate. The iPad Mini 8 will remain locked at 60 Hz even after switching to OLED. As a result, scrolling and Apple Pencil input will be the same as they are now. Although the display tech will improve, many expect the experience to feel dated.
Panel orientation is also still up in the air. The camera placement may be affected by whether Apple manufactures the OLED screen for portrait or landscape use.
