The iPad mini 8 is increasingly becoming the focus of leaks and rumors. New clues from an internal code leak suggest that Apple is planning a significant performance leap with the next generation of the compact tablet. The potential use of a new Pro chip is generating particular interest.
Apple, as usual, doesn't comment on unreleased products. This makes leaks from internal software versions all the more relevant. In early December, an internal pre-release version of iOS 26 triggered a wave of revelations. Although many details have already been analyzed, new code analyses continue to provide additional information. A key focus is the iPad mini 8.
New clues from the iOS 26 code
Several leakers, including the well-known Chinese insider Kang, have examined parts of the leaked iOS 26 code and published their findings on Weibo. Their focus was on internal references to future devices and the chips they are intended to use.
These compilations also include the iPad mini 8. According to the code, the device is said to have the internal codenames J510 and J511. These designations are considered relatively reliable indicators of new Apple hardware and are often stored in the system long before the official announcement.
A20 Pro chip for the iPad mini 8
Perhaps the most important piece of information from the leak concerns the processor. According to the leak, the iPad mini 8 will be equipped with the A20 Pro chip. This is the same chip that, according to current rumors, will also be used in the Pro models of the iPhone 18, which is expected to be released this fall.
Should this information be confirmed, it would be a significant step forward. The iPad mini would then receive a current Pro chip for the first time, bringing its performance closer to Apple's top-of-the-line models.
Deviation from previous leaks
A similar code leak occurred back in August. At that time, the information suggested that the iPad mini 8 might be equipped with the A19 Pro chip. However, the evidence that has now surfaced clearly points to the A20 Pro.
Interestingly, the codenames J510 and J511 mentioned match the earlier leak. This suggests that Apple is still working on the same device internally, but may have opted for a more powerful processor upgrade.
More rumors about the iPad mini 8
Aside from the processor, there is currently little concrete information about the iPad mini 8. Another rumor concerns the display. Several sources suggest that Apple could equip the tablet with an OLED display for the first time. Such a change would offer advantages, especially in terms of contrast, black levels, and energy efficiency.
This information has not yet been confirmed. Further details regarding the features or design are also currently unknown.
Planned market launch
The iPad mini 8 is currently expected to launch at the end of 2026. This would mean a relatively long gap between the current model and the next generation, allowing for significant technical changes.
Regarding the credibility of the source
Kang is considered a well-connected leaker in China with a solid track record. His predictions have proven accurate on several occasions in the past. Apple itself seems to take the activities of such insiders seriously. As early as 2021, the company sent letters to several Chinese leakers, including Kang, threatening legal action if they continued to disseminate information about unreleased products.
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iPad mini 8 with a clear upgrade trend
The iPad mini 8 is currently characterized by one thing above all: its potential for a significant upgrade. The possible use of the A20 Pro chip, indications of an OLED display, and a release towards the end of 2026 suggest that Apple could give the small iPad a more prominent role in its portfolio. Even though much is still based on leaks, the information available so far paints a fairly clear picture of the planned direction. (Image: blackzheep / DepositPhotos.com)
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