Apple's upcoming iPad mini may see a significantly larger performance upgrade than initially anticipated. 

Published: Dec 17, 2025, 2:48 AM 

The next iPad mini has been generating buzz for a while, and the latest leak suggests it could feature a more powerful chip than previously rumored.

iPad Mini May Feature the A20 Pro Chip

According to a tipster from MacRumors, new information regarding the next-generation iPad mini indicates that it may be equipped with the A20 Pro chip. This insight comes from an analysis of a macOS kernel debug kit that included internal Apple codenames.

The kit was reportedly released inadvertently on Apple's website earlier this year but was swiftly removed once leakers began uncovering hidden information and sharing it publicly. 

Earlier rumors suggested that Apple's next iPad mini might be equipped with the A19 Pro chip, which currently powers the iPhone 17 Pro. However, the tipster claims that the codenames found in the code imply the device could actually feature the A20 Pro chip, which has not yet been released.

Of course, it's not guaranteed that the iPad mini will come with the A20 Pro, as this chip is likely intended for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro next year.

One possibility is that Apple initially tested a model with the A19 Pro chip but may have altered its plans. If the iPad mini is released in September or October 2026, it’s plausible that Apple will equip it with the A20 Pro instead. 

The iPad mini doesn't always get the newest Apple chip. 

In September 2021, Apple unveiled the A15 Bionic chip alongside the iPhone 13 series (which includes the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max) and simultaneously released an iPad mini featuring the same chip.

However, this hasn't always been the case. In previous years, the iPad mini has sometimes been updated without adopting the latest chip available at that time. Therefore, both possibilities—the iPad mini coming with either the A19 Pro or the A20 Pro—remain on the table.

Meanwhile, the A20 Pro chip is anticipated to power the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. It is expected to be manufactured using TSMC's advanced 2nm process, which should enhance both performance and efficiency. This means the chip is likely to be more powerful while generating less heat. 

Apart from the chip, the iPad mini is also rumored to bring an upgrade to its display. Reportedly, the next-gen compact iPad may come with an OLED display, which would be a huge upgrade and should give you deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and overall better viewing experience. 

The iPad mini is also rumored to come with a redesigned speaker system with vibration technology and a water-resistance rating.  

Currently, the iPad mini is anticipated to be released next year. Its predecessor was introduced in October 2024, featuring the A17 Pro chip and support for Apple Intelligence. 

Apple’s Next Compact iPad Set for Major Upgrade, If Rumors Hold True

If all the leaks are accurate, we can expect a significant upgrade this time around. One of the most noteworthy changes rumored for the iPad mini is the switch to an OLED display, which I fully support, as OLED screens generally perform better in all aspects.

With a more powerful chip and the OLED upgrade, the iPad mini is becoming a compelling option for me.

I'm in need of an iPad upgrade, and I find myself considering the iPad mini's compact design, which seems perfect for my requirements. I want something that’s portable yet powerful, with a stunning display and quick software performance. That could very well be the iPad mini for me next year, but we’ll have to wait and see.