The hyped iPad Mini OLED is getting closer to reality

Apple’s long-rumoured OLED iPad mini may finally be moving closer to launch. And we couldn’t be happier.

According to ETNews (via MacRumors), Samsung Display has reportedly started mass production of OLED panels for Apple’s first OLED iPad mini. This means the upgrade is looking more than just an early rumour.

The current iPad Mini 7 still uses LCD tech, so a move to OLED would be a major screen upgrade for Apple’s smallest tablet. OLED should bring deeper blacks, higher contrast, and better power efficiency, which could make the iPad mini much better for watching videos, reading, and gaming. All the best tablets use OLED tech.

The iPad Pro has already shown what OLED can do for Apple’s higher-end devices. Since the 2024 M4 model, the display upgrade has made a real difference to contrast, brightness and overall image quality.

There is still no confirmed release date for the OLED iPad mini, and Apple has not announced the device. However, a late 2026 launch is widely expected, which would line up with the timing of panel production reportedly starting now.

The same ETNews report also claims OLED panel production for the next MacBook Pro is scheduled to begin in July. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the OLED MacBook Pro is also expected to be Apple’s first touchscreen Mac.

If accurate, it would mark a major redesign for the MacBook Pro line, with OLED replacing the current mini-LED display and touchscreen support potentially coming to Macs after years of Apple avoiding it.

Samsung Display is said to be the exclusive supplier for the OLED iPad mini, OLED MacBook Pro, and Apple’s rumoured foldable iPhone displays. LG Display is also reportedly supplying OLED panels for some other Apple products launching later this year.

As of now, the OLED iPad mini is still unofficial. But if panel production has really started, Apple’s smallest tablet may be in line for its biggest display upgrade in years.