The Upcoming Waterproof iPad Mini: What to Expect
Explore the anticipated features of the waterproof iPad Mini, including its innovative speaker system, OLED display, and potential processor upgrades set for launch in October 2026.
Speculation has been rife among industry observers regarding the potential release of a waterproof iPad Mini. The foundation for this innovation appears to be a new speaker system developed by Apple, with additional upgrades anticipated for the upcoming launch in October.
The last significant upgrade for the iPad Mini occurred in 2024, marking a notable point in its evolution.
In October 2025, well-known tech insider Mark Gurman reported that Apple was indeed working on a waterproof version of the iPad Mini. The device is expected to feature a redesigned casing, allowing it to achieve water resistance comparable to that of an iPhone.
Enjoying the iPad Mini by the Pool or in the Bath
With this waterproof capability, users could potentially use the iPad Mini at the pool or in the bathtub, similar to how some e-readers and iPhones are currently utilized. At present, no iPad model offers such protection against water intrusion, and Apple has made it clear that the existing iPads are not suitable for brief submersion.
Reports from MacRumors indicate that Apple has a unique approach to achieving this water resistance. Unlike the iPhone, which employs adhesives and seals to protect speaker openings and other vulnerable areas, the iPad Mini will utilize an innovative speaker system.
Innovative Speaker System Based on 2014 Patent
This new design eliminates traditional speaker openings, which are common entry points for both water and dust. Instead, sound will be projected from the flat surfaces of the tablet's casing, which will serve partly as a speaker membrane. This concept was initially outlined in a patent that Apple filed in 2014.
The exact level of protection the iPad Mini will offer remains uncertain. For reference, the iPhone is rated for water and dust protection under the IP68 standard, meaning it can withstand being submerged in up to six meters of water for approximately 30 minutes. A viral video from July 2026 showcased an iPhone 16 Pro filming its own rescue after falling into the ocean.
Additional Features: OLED Display and Processor Upgrade
In addition to the rumored waterproof feature, several other enhancements are expected for the iPad Mini, which is projected for launch in October 2026. Among these is a new 8.4-inch OLED display. Reports suggest that the iPad Mini may also come equipped with either an A19 Pro or even an A20 Pro processor.
The last update to the iPad Mini occurred in 2024, when it received the A17 Pro chip and support for Apple's AI variant, Apple Intelligence. Currently, the iPad Mini retails for around 679 euros, but the introduction of the OLED display could potentially increase the price by 100 euros or more.
