Apple unveiled the iPad mini (2026) with an OLED screen and A20 Pro chipset, listing its battery at 18.9Wh but withholding the mAh figure. The mystery is now solved thanks to the tablet's entry in the EU's EPREL database. For model number A3596, the new iPad mini carries a rated battery capacity of 4,900 mAh. That's slightly smaller than the 5,078 mAh (19.3Wh) cell found in the iPad mini (2024), which isn't surprising since the new model is nearly 1mm thinner and close to 40g lighter. The EPREL listing also states the battery is rated for 1,000 full charge cycles before dropping to 80% of its original capacity and should last 78 hours per charge in the EU's standardized test cycle. The battery isn't user-replaceable, and Apple recommends a charger with at least 20W output power. The iPad mini (2026) earns an energy efficiency class D, a repairability class C, and a D for drop resistance after surviving 57 falls without defects. The listing confirms the IP67 rating, scratch resistance at level 4 on the Mohs scale, and at least five years of software updates. The iPad mini (2026) starts at $699, €749, or £699, with pre-orders open now and first deliveries expected on November 6.
The capacity reduction from 5,078 mAh to 4,900 mAh reflects Apple's focus on thinness and weight over raw battery size, relying on the more efficient A20 Pro chipset and OLED display to maintain competitive endurance. At 78 hours in the EU standardized cycle, the new mini should still deliver solid daily usage despite the smaller cell.
The non-user-replaceable design and 20W charging requirement align with Apple's existing ecosystem approach, while the five-year software update promise extends the tablet's useful lifespan.
For buyers weighing upgrade decisions, the combination of OLED, A20 Pro performance, and confirmed battery longevity positions the iPad mini (2026) as a strong compact tablet option.
Source: GSMArena · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing