Apple unveils iPad mini refresh with OLED display but retains 60Hz screen

Apple announced the latest generation of its iPad mini, describing it as the "biggest update ever". The tablet now sports an 8.5-inch OLED screen that is thinner and lighter than its predecessor, offers more than double the peak brightness, and includes a nano-texture option for reduced glare. Internally, the device is powered by the A20 Pro chip with Neural Accelerators in each GPU core and a dual 16-core Neural Engine, and it adds a 12 MP Center Stage front camera, water and dust resistance, faster wireless and cellular connectivity, and support for fast charging.

Online commentators quickly highlighted that Apple did not mention a change to the display’s refresh rate, leading to the conclusion that the iPad mini continues to use a 60 Hz panel rather than the variable 1-120 Hz ProMotion technology found in higher-end iPads. One user questioned the price, asking, "> 700 bucks and no 120hz display?" Another wrote, "> 60Hz right? in 2026 right? Hell no." Critics also compared the refresh rate to competing Android devices that offer higher rates, such as a model with a 185 Hz panel.

Some analysts suggested that the lack of a higher refresh rate may reflect the iPad mini’s traditional focus on business applications, where a faster screen is less critical. Others argued that, given the prevalence of 120 Hz displays in many devices, the omission could disappoint a segment of consumers who value smoother motion for gaming or media consumption.