Apple's next iPad mini is rumored to receive one of its biggest hardware updates yet. The iPad mini 8 is expected to combine an A20 Pro chip with an OLED display, a landscape-oriented front camera and several connectivity and design changes.

The information remains unconfirmed, but the reported upgrades suggest Apple is preparing a more substantial refresh than the current model. An announcement is expected this year, with October considered the most likely launch window.

A20 Pro chip and more memory

The iPad mini 8 is expected to use Apple's A20 Pro chip, which is reportedly manufactured using TSMC's 2-nanometer process. Compared with the A17 Pro in the current iPad mini, the new chip could deliver up to around 1.5 times faster CPU performance and up to around 2.5 times faster GPU performance.

The processor is also rumored to include a dual 16-core Neural Engine, giving it 32 Neural Engine cores in total. That could support more advanced on-device intelligence features, although the specific capabilities Apple will offer have not been confirmed.

Apple may increase memory from 8GB to 12GB. The additional RAM is reportedly tied to the ability to customize the pace and expressiveness of Siri's AI voice, rather than simply improving general multitasking.

OLED display and revised design

One of the most visible changes could be a move from LCD to OLED. The new panel is expected to provide richer colors, stronger contrast and true blacks compared with the current display.

The tablet may also have slimmer bezels, giving the screen a more modern appearance without changing the iPad mini's compact form factor. Another exterior change could move the front camera into the right bezel when the tablet is held upright. This landscape camera placement would better suit video calls when the iPad mini is used horizontally.

New wireless features and cellular hardware

Apple is rumored to be developing an N1 wireless chip for the tablet. The chip could bring Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support, potentially preparing the iPad mini for newer routers, accessories and wireless standards.

Cellular versions may use Apple's custom C1X or C2 modem. The report does not establish which modem Apple will choose or detail how its performance would compare with the current hardware.

Speakers, water resistance and price

The speaker system could receive a significant redesign. The next iPad mini is rumored to eliminate visible speaker holes and may use an earpiece-style speaker built into the top bezel, similar in concept to the speaker arrangement on an iPhone.

IP-rated water resistance is also expected for the first time on an iPad mini. Apple has not confirmed the rating or explained what level of protection the tablet would provide.

The current iPad mini starts at $599 in the United States after a $100 price increase in June. Apple attributed that increase to higher RAM and storage chip costs. Because OLED panels are generally more expensive than LCD displays, the iPad mini 8 could cost more when it launches.