iPad mini 2026: Apple plans waterproof design and OLED

The iPad mini has been one of Apple's most popular tablets for years. Now, a major update is apparently imminent. According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple is working on a new version of the iPad mini that will be more water-resistant for the first time – similar to the iPhone. This would allow the compact tablet to be used in environments where moisture has previously been a problem.

Since the introduction of the first model, the iPad mini has established itself as a handy companion for everyday life, work, and leisure. But despite its performance, one thing has remained unchanged: its sensitivity to water. The current iPad mini doesn't have an official IP rating and should be avoided. That could soon change. Apple is apparently planning to make the upcoming iPad mini more durable – with a new casing, new speaker system, and presumably an OLED display.

New, waterproof housing

According to Bloomberg, Apple is working on an iPad mini with a casing similar to that of the iPhone. This would provide better protection against splashes and moisture, making it ideal for use in humid environments such as the bathroom, kitchen, or poolside. What IP rating the iPad mini will ultimately receive is still unclear.

By comparison, the iPhone has an IP68 certification, which means it can survive in water up to six meters deep for up to 30 minutes. However, no iPad model has yet been officially awarded this level of water resistance.

New speaker system with vibration technology

The newly developed speaker system is said to make a decisive contribution to the improved water resistance. Apple is said to have developed a system based on vibration technology that no longer requires traditional speaker openings. Instead of air vents, vibrations in the casing generate the sound. By eliminating the speaker openings, the places where water could penetrate are reduced. This significantly distinguishes the new design from the previous approach on the iPhone, which used adhesives and seals to shield openings. The 2026 iPad mini could thus have a much more closed, robust casing designed for longevity.

OLED display and planned release

In addition to the new casing design, the upcoming iPad mini will feature an OLED display. This technology offers more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and greater energy efficiency compared to previous LCD panels. Apple last updated the iPad mini with the seventh generation in 2024. The next model is not expected until 2026 at the earliest and could bring one of the biggest technical upgrades in years.

Price development

The new design and expanded features will likely be reflected in the price. The iPad mini currently starts at $499 in the US and €549 in Germany. According to estimates from Apple insiders, the new model could be up to $100 more expensive. This would place the iPad mini in a higher price range, with a clear emphasis on premium features like water resistance and OLED technology.

New milestone for the iPad mini

The 2026 iPad mini could represent a decisive evolution of the compact iPad series. With a waterproof casing, new vibration-based speaker system, and OLED display, much points to a completely redesigned device that draws more closely on the iPhone design. Many details are still unclear, such as the exact IP rating and the final price. What is clear, however, is that Apple intends to make the iPad mini more robust, modern, and versatile in the future—thus closing a gap that previously existed between the iPhone and iPad. (Image: Shutterstock / blackzheep)