Apple has released the 8th-generation iPad mini. The company describes it as the most significant update to its compact tablet line. Starting at $699, the price has increased, but the hardware shifts are substantial. The new model introduces a move from IPS to OLED display technology.
The hardware core is the A20 Pro chip. This is the same processor previously featured in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo. Apple states that this upgrade, combined with the new display, marks a major step forward for the petite tablet category.
The physical footprint remains roughly the same as the 2024 release. A 24 percent reduction in bezel thickness allows for a slightly larger screen. The chassis is thinner at 5.4 mm, nearly a full millimeter slimmer than its predecessor. Durability has also improved. The new model earns an IP67 rating for water and dust protection, a feature absent in the 7th-generation device.
The visual upgrade centers on an 8.5-inch Super Retina XDR display, up from 8.3 inches on the last model. OLED technology delivers deeper blacks and significantly higher peak brightness. It reaches 1,200 nits, compared to 500 nits on the previous mini. The display can also dim to a minimum of 1 nit for use in dark environments. Apple will offer a nano-textured matte display option for those who prefer reduced glare. These display specifications bring the iPad mini’s visual performance closer to that of Apple’s Pro-level devices.