According to Korean media ETNews, Apple is expected to launch a new-generation iPad mini next year — likely the first iPad mini equipped with an OLED display — which could significantly expand the market for OLED panels. The report states that Samsung Display will commence mass production of the new iPad Mini’s 8.4-inch OLED panels, which are scheduled for release in July next year, with an annual output of approximately 3 million units. Because panel production takes time, the tablet is expected to ship in the third or fourth quarter of the year.

So far, Apple has used LCD panels for the iPad mini, but if production proceeds smoothly, the new iPad mini could become, after the iPad Pro, the second iPad to adopt OLED. Since the iPad mini is positioned as a mass-market product (less premium than the iPad Pro), this shift would indicate that Apple is moving more of its tablet lineup toward OLED.

Industry sources also indicate that another mainstream model, the iPad Air, is expected to transition to OLED in 2028. One display-industry insider commented that while OLED on the iPad Pro has drawn attention, demand has been lower than expected due to the high price. By introducing OLED on iPad mini (and later iPad Air), Apple could accelerate the adoption of OLED across its tablets while keeping price points relatively accessible.

Finally, market research firm Omdia estimates that OLED tablet panel shipments will reach 15 million units in 2026 — up 39% compared to two years earlier.

The above content is compiled by ModeZone, a fashion and entertainment magazine.