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Apple has introduced an OLED display to the iPad mini for the first time, pairing a brighter panel and a faster chip with a modest redesign — and a higher starting price. The eighth-generation tablet goes on sale November 6, with pre-orders already open.
Display and physical changes
The new iPad mini features an OLED screen with a peak brightness of 1,200 nits and a quoted contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1. Apple increased the panel size to 8.5 inches from 8.3 inches while keeping the device footprint essentially the same.
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Despite the larger display, the tablet is slightly narrower than the previous model — 5.22 inches versus 5.3 inches — and lighter. The Wi‑Fi model now weighs 0.56 pounds (down from 0.65), and the 5G variant is 0.58 pounds (previously 0.66). Base storage remains 128GB; 256GB and 512GB options are available, and those higher-capacity versions can be ordered with a nano-texture glass display for an additional cost.
Performance and connectivity
The iPad mini runs on Apple’s A20 Pro system on chip, the same processor used in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo. Apple says the SoC is capable of running large language models locally and delivers a general speed improvement over prior models.
The new chipset includes a 7-core GPU, two cores more than the A17 Pro. Connectivity has been upgraded as well: the 5G model uses Apple’s C2 modem, which Apple estimates can provide up to 50% faster data speeds than the previous iPad mini. The device also supports Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and Thread through the N1 chip.
Cameras and audio
On the front, Apple moved the 12MP Center Stage camera to the landscape edge of the tablet, a change that affects video calls and framing. Face ID remains absent. The rear 12MP camera records up to 4K at 60fps and supports Smart HDR 4.
Apple is introducing what it calls an Acoustic Display in this model. According to the company, woofers paired through the display increase volume and bass, while tweeters concealed between the glass and aluminum enclosure improve high frequencies. Independent testing will be required to assess those claims in real-world listening.
Durability and battery life
The eighth-generation mini uses a sealed enclosure and carries an IP67 rating, which indicates protection against dust and temporary immersion in up to one meter of freshwater for 30 minutes. Apple, however, advises against intentionally submerging the device.
Battery endurance is largely unchanged from the prior model. Apple states up to 10 hours of video playback or web browsing over Wi‑Fi, and about nine hours when using a cellular connection. With a power adapter of at least 35W, the company says the battery can reach 50% charge in 30 minutes.
Price and availability
Apple set the starting price at $699, a $150 increase compared with the previous model after that device’s price rose in June. Pre-orders are available now, and shipments begin November 6.
