New leaks surrounding the iPad mini 8 suggest that Apple plans to introduce meaningful upgrades, but with at least one frustrating holdover. While the tablet may gain a slightly larger OLED screen and the same A19 Pro chip used in flagship iPhones, it’s still expected to stick with a 60 Hz refresh rate.
iPad mini 8 rumored to launch before OLED iPad Air
According to well-known Weibo leaker Instant Digital, Apple will prioritize the iPad mini OLED before updating the iPad Air. Korean blogger yeux1122 adds that the iPad mini 8 may arrive as early as Q3 2026, while there’s “no movement” yet on the Air.
This launch order is notable, as Apple often upgrades its larger tablets first. The shift in strategy could reflect stronger demand for a refreshed compact iPad especially one with OLED visuals.
A19 Pro chip expected to power the iPad mini 8
The next iPad mini may also borrow its brains from Apple’s latest iPhone Pro lineup. Reports indicate the A19 Pro chip currently found inside the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will run the show inside it.
Paired with a new 8.5-inch display (up from 8.3 inches in the current model), the added performance could push the iPad mini further into productivity territory.
It still capped at 60 Hz refresh rate
Despite moving to an OLED panel, Apple is rumored to be sticking with a 60 Hz refresh rate on the iPad mini 8. That decision may frustrate users who expect smoother scrolling, especially since modern iPhones and larger iPads already offer 120 Hz ProMotion displays.
Here’s what the next iPad mini is expected to offer:
- 8.5-inch LTPS OLED display
- A19 Pro chipset
- OLED before iPad Air
- 60 Hz refresh rate (unchanged)
- Unconfirmed panel orientation (portrait or landscape)
Apple risks holding the iPad mini 8 back with display trade-offs
The OLED upgrade is a welcome change. However, keeping the iPad mini 8 at 60 Hz could leave it behind similarly priced devices. This is especially noticeable since the iPhone 17, also expected in 2026, may offer a smoother visual experience by default.
Until Apple finalizes the design, there’s still a chance for late-stage adjustments. But if these reports hold, it will be a curious mix of high-end internals and dated display limitations.
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