Full Breakdown
Unreleased iPad mini Smart Folio Listing Hints at New Device
By Drooid · · How we work
New Regulatory Listing Suggests Upcoming iPad mini Model
Apple’s French regulatory website now lists a Smart Folio with model number A3632, a designation that does not match any existing iPad mini accessories. The filing is dated September 8, 2026 and appears alongside accessories for the iPhone 18 Pro that were added in September. Because the current Smart Folio (model A3631) serves both the sixth- and seventh-generation iPad mini, the presence of a distinct model number implies that a forthcoming iPad mini may have physical changes that render existing cases incompatible.
Material and Component Differences Highlight Design Shifts
Apple’s documentation for the unreleased Folio notes a minimum of 3 % recycled material, compared with 9 % in the current version, and a rare-earth element content of 6,610 mg, versus 3,947 mg in the prior case. The increase in rare-earth mass likely reflects larger or stronger magnets, suggesting alterations to the device’s dimensions or magnetic attachment points.
Rumored Specifications of the Next-Generation iPad mini
Unconfirmed reports describe the next iPad mini (often referred to as “iPad mini 8”) as featuring an OLED display, Apple’s A20 Pro chip, and a more water-resistant chassis. Leaker yeux1122 has reiterated that the display will be limited to a 60 Hz refresh rate, while Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman has said Apple has tested both 60 Hz and 120 Hz ProMotion options without confirming a final choice. Additional speculation includes a shift to a landscape-oriented front-facing camera, removal of traditional speaker grilles in favor of a vibration-based speaker system, and a price increase from $599 to $799.
Anticipated Launch Timing
Rumors indicate that Apple could unveil the iPad mini 8 in late October, potentially alongside an OLED-equipped MacBook Pro. No official confirmation has been provided.
Potential Market Impact
If the new iPad mini incorporates the cited design changes, existing accessories and cases may become obsolete, prompting a surge in accessory sales for the new form factor. A higher price point could also reposition the mini within Apple’s product lineup, targeting consumers willing to pay a premium for OLED technology and enhanced durability. The regulatory listing, while not definitive proof, offers the most concrete evidence to date that Apple is preparing a significant refresh of its smallest tablet.