Apple working on an iPad mini design change that could save you from a heart-sinking mishap

Next iPad mini may be water-resistant

A Bloomberg report indicates that Apple is working on an updated casing for the iPad mini that would offer a more water-resistant design. This updated casing would offer water resistance similar to the iPhone, which should make the compact tablet safer to use in wet environments. 

There's reportedly a new speaker system for the iPad mini that uses vibration-based technology. That would allow for the speaker holes in the device to be removed entirely. In its turn, that would help cut down on areas where water could get into the iPad mini, and thus Apple can offer a more water-resistant design without compromising on sound quality. 


Meanwhile, the current iPad mini does not have an official water resistance rating. So yep, better protect it when it's around water, whether you’re taking notes in a café, using it in the kitchen, or carrying it near pools or lakes. A small spill or drop can cause unexpected damage, so having a water-resistant design could save you a lot of headaches.

Next-generation iPad mini may pack some serious upgrades

Rumor has it that the next generation of the iPad mini could come with an OLED display, which would be a significant improvement over the current LCD display and offer richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast.  The new generation is expected to arrive sometime in 2026, giving Apple enough time to implement these changes thoughtfully.

The Cupertino tech giant launched the previous iPad mini – the iPad mini 7 – in 2024, so fans of compact tablets are now waiting for a new version anyway. 

Of course, there's nothing that comes for free in this world, and the new iPad mini with OLED display and improved water resistance is expected to be more expensive than its predecessor. Rumors claim that Apple could raise its starting price by around $100. 

Water resistance is a must for tech, in my opinion

Incidents always happen, so I'm glad to hear that the iPad mini may also come with a water-resistance rating of some sort next year. Water damage is one of the most common causes of tech repairs, and having extra protection built into the device itself can make a big difference. 

Obviously, water-resistance rating or not, my general advice is to always protect your tech from water sources, but an additional IP rating for peace of mind won't be a bad thing. Overall, these updates suggest that Apple is continuing to refine the iPad mini for modern users, balancing portability, performance, and durability.

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