Apple Testing OLED Displays for MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad Mini with Potential Water Resistance Features

Apple is on the brink of integrating OLED display technology across a broader selection of its devices, though a wide rollout is not anticipated in the immediate future. This cautious approach is characteristic of Apple, which tends to adopt new technologies with caution.

Upcoming OLED Displays in MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad Mini

NEW: Apple is preparing major changes to its MacBook Air, iPad mini and iPad Air lines, with a plan to give the popular devices higher-end, OLED displays.https://t.co/abZ2EAMC9T

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 28, 2025

Notable tech journalist Mark Gurman has recently reported on Apple’s ambitious plans to revamp its MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad mini with OLED screens. This represents a significant step forward for these popular devices, enhancing visual performance and color accuracy.

However, while advancements in display technology are on the horizon, Gurman indicates that Apple will maintain its existing Retina display setup for forthcoming MacBook Pro models. These Pro models are anticipated to be powered by M5 Pro and M5 Max systems-on-chip (SoCs), with more extensive display redesigns planned for the M6 Pro and M6 Max, expected to launch in 2027.

As a result, the OLED-enhanced MacBook Air is projected to arrive no sooner than 2028. This timeline seems practical, particularly as the MacBook Air is yet to be updated with the latest M5 chip.

In addition to the MacBook Air, Apple is poised to unveil a refreshed iPad mini by spring 2026, which will likely include an OLED display. It is noteworthy that this upgraded version may see a price increase of $100, with an expected starting price of $599, aligning it with the current iPad Air model.

Apple has also tested a redesigned casing for the iPad mini that’s water-resistant, matching a feature on recent iPhones.https://t.co/PyTCpdBN6s

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) October 28, 2025

Furthermore, Gurman highlighted that Apple is evaluating a redesign for the iPad mini’s casing to incorporate water resistance, akin to features found in the latest iPhone models. This enhancement may very well extend to other iPad variants, which currently lack this protective feature, as only iPhones and the Apple Watch hold IP water resistance ratings.

In a separate update, Apple’s exploration of new vibration-related technologies for its speakers could enable improved water resistance across various iPad models once these innovations are finalized. Notably, while iPhones employ speaker voids of high performance, these are reinforced with gaskets and adhesives to meet established IP water resistance standards.

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