Apple Plans OLED iPad Mini Launch and New Entry-Level iPad Updates

​Apple is preparing to launch a new iPad mini with an OLED display as early as this fall, according to a report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The device is expected to be available by October. This update marks a significant change for the iPad mini, which currently uses an LCD panel.

Key Highlights

• Apple to launch OLED iPad mini by October with 60Hz refresh rate.
• Next entry-level iPad expected in early 2025 with A18 or A19 chip and 8GB RAM.
• New iPad Air and iPad Pro models set for spring release.
• Apple Pencil upgrade with replaceable battery planned for 2027.

OLED iPad Mini Details

The upcoming iPad mini will feature an OLED display, but it will not include ProMotion technology. As a result, the device will have a 60Hz refresh rate, similar to previous models. The absence of ProMotion means users will not experience the higher refresh rates found in some other Apple devices.

The new OLED iPad mini may come with a higher price tag than the current version. The existing iPad mini model starts at $599. Apple has not confirmed the exact pricing for the OLED variant, but the use of OLED technology typically increases production costs.

Entry-Level iPad and Future Releases

Apple plans to continue using LCD panels for its base iPad models to keep costs down. The next entry-level iPad is expected to launch in the first quarter of next year, between January and March. This new model will focus on internal upgrades rather than a new design.

The main improvement for the entry-level iPad will be in its system-on-chip (SoC). Sources suggest it will use either the A18 or A19 chip, paired with 8GB of RAM. This is an upgrade from the current model, which features the A16 chip and 6GB of RAM. The enhanced hardware aims to improve performance and efficiency.

Upcoming iPad Air and Accessories

Apple is also planning to release new iPad Air models in the spring. It is not yet clear if these will feature OLED screens. The new iPad Airs are likely to be introduced alongside updated iPad Pro models. Details about the specific features of the new iPad Air remain limited at this time.

In addition to new tablets, Apple is working on an upgraded Apple Pencil. The next version of the Apple Pencil is expected to launch in 2027. One notable feature may be a replaceable battery, which would be a first for the accessory.

Apple's upcoming releases indicate a continued focus on display technology and performance improvements across its tablet lineup. The company is balancing new features with cost considerations, especially for its entry-level products.