Apple may have confirmed an upcoming iPad mini through an oversight on its French regulatory website. The site currently lists a Smart Folio for iPad mini with model number A3632, a number that does not match any existing product. The regulatory document is dated September 8, 2026, though it is unclear when Apple added the listing.
The new accessory differs notably from the Smart Folio for the iPad mini (6th generation), whose document is dated December 22, 2022. According to Apple's documentation, the new Smart Folio contains at least 3% recycled materials, compared with a minimum of 9% in the current model. It also contains at least 6,610 milligrams of rare earth elements, up from 3,947 milligrams, which could point to changes in the magnets that attach the cover to the iPad. Because the sixth- and seventh-generation iPad mini models share the same Smart Folio, a new accessory may signal physical changes that affect case compatibility.
The next-generation iPad mini is rumored to feature an OLED display, Apple's A20 Pro chip, thinner bezels, a relocated front-facing camera, and a redesigned speaker system. Bloomberg has reported that Apple is also working on a more water-resistant design, and recent rumors suggest the device could cost considerably more than its predecessor.
Reports conflict on whether the new model will keep a 60Hz refresh rate or gain 120Hz ProMotion support. Leaker yeux1122 recently reiterated that the device will be limited to a 60Hz OLED display. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman says Apple has tested both options but has not confirmed which one it chose.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing