Announced earlier today as the “biggest update ever” for the iPad mini, Apple’s new model comes fitted with a much-requested OLED screen. The flagship iPad Pro series has had OLED panel technology for a couple of generations now, with the latest being the iPad Pro M5 launched around this time last year, with 13-inch and 11-inch models. Those come with up to 120Hz; the new 8.5-inch mini more than likely does not.

A quick look around the OLED display market will tell you that 120Hz+ panels are in abundance, particularly when it comes to high-end TVs and gaming monitors. On the smaller scale, even Valve’s popular 7.4-inch OLED Steam Deck handheld manages up to 90Hz, and that was released nearly three years ago. Needless to say, the new mini won’t feel or look as smooth as a Pro model.

Display specs for the new iPad mini with A20 Pro chip

• 8.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 2M:1 contrast ratio
• 2316 x 1512 resolution at 326 pixels per inch
• 60Hz refresh rate expected, as no ProMotion support listed
• Up to 1,200 nits peak brightness, with 600 nits full-screen brightness, P3 wide colour and True Tone support
• Optional nano-texture glass for reduced glare

The standard iPad and iPad Air are yet to receive OLED versions, so it’s interesting to see the iPad mini get the upgrade before those two. In any case, it seems that 60Hz remains a deliberate decision by Apple to retain a level of hierarchy between the models. Some users speculate the display is “certainly capable” of a 120Hz refresh rate, but remains software-locked for this reason. Please note that we cannot confirm this.

Outside of the display, the 2026 iPad mini is fitted with the A20 Pro – the same chip you’ll find in the iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max and iPhone Duo. So, while performance looks like it’ll be in tip-top shape, the actual smoothness of the panel may leave something to be desired. Either way, the upgrade to OLED is a welcome one, expected to offer excellent (vibrant) color accuracy, deeper blacks, a thinner design, wider viewing angles, and more when compared to the older LCD panel.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.