Apple Delays iPad mini OLED Launch to Late 2026, Slight Price Increase Expected
Reports from Instant Digital indicate that Apple will not launch the iPad mini with OLED display in the first half of 2026 as previously anticipated, delaying the timeline to later in the year. This update was shared via a post on Weibo on November 26, 2025, and has been corroborated by multiple leading tech sources.
Delayed Launch Timeline
Earlier, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported in October 2025 that Apple was testing a new iPad mini with an OLED panel to match the display quality of the iPad Pro. While fans hoped for a release in the first or second quarter of 2026, Instant Digital now suggests that the earliest launch could occur in Q3 or Q4 of 2026, aligning with reports from Korean outlets such as ET News and ZDNET Korea.
Historically, iPad mini models have debuted in the fall season, with the 2021 model launching in September and the 2019 model in October. Based on this pattern, consumers can likely expect the iPad mini OLED to arrive around September or October 2026.
Focus on Other iPad Models First
Apple is expected to prioritize updates to the standard iPad and iPad Air early next year, potentially featuring the A19 Pro chip and other enhancements. The new iPad mini will become the second iPad model to adopt OLED technology, following the iPad Pro. The 8.4-inch OLED panel will be produced by Samsung Display.
The iPad mini OLED will offer higher contrast, vibrant colors, and improved viewing angles. Additional upgrades may include enhanced water resistance, vibration-based speakers replacing traditional audio holes, and a slight price increase of around USD 100, approximately 3,300 THB in the SEA region. Prospective buyers may consider waiting for this model or choosing alternative iPads available this year.
THIS IS OUR SAY
Apple’s iPad mini OLED delay is not unexpected, following historical launch patterns, but the enhancements in display, audio, and build quality make it worth the wait for fans who want a premium compact tablet experience in late 2026.
Source: 9to5mac
