Reports suggest that Apple’s next iPad mini might feature a refreshed design that removes traditional speaker holes, potentially improving its resistance to water. To make that possible, the company is said to be experimenting with a vibration-based audio system — a first for Apple devices if introduced.
Understanding Vibration-Driven Audio
Instead of using standard speakers that move air through a diaphragm, vibration-based systems rely on an exciter — a component that converts an electrical signal into physical vibration. When attached to a solid surface, such as glass or metal, it causes that surface to act as the sound emitter.
For an iPad mini, Apple could mount exciters behind the display or within the metal frame. These would vibrate the material itself to generate sound, eliminating the need for speaker grilles entirely. Given the size of the iPad’s display, multiple exciters could even produce stereo sound by dividing the screen into separate resonating zones.
Apple’s Patents
Apple has already filed patents for a “mechanically actuated panel acoustic system.” This design describes a device enclosure split into several sub-panels, each paired with one or more actuators. The actuators would vibrate the sub-panels, transforming audio signals into audible output — effectively turning the casing or display into a speaker surface.
Existing Examples of the Technology
The idea isn’t entirely new. Huawei introduced similar “Acoustic Display Technology” in its 2019 P30 Pro smartphone. That model used an under-display exciter that caused the screen to vibrate for voice calls. While it worked well for phone conversations, the phone still relied on a bottom speaker for music and media, and later Huawei models dropped the feature.
LG’s G8 ThinQ also used its OLED screen as a speaker diaphragm, combining it with a separate bottom speaker to enhance stereo sound and bass. Meanwhile, Sony’s OLED televisions have employed a comparable “Acoustic Surface” setup for years. Their TVs contain multiple actuators that vibrate the display, aligning the sound precisely with the on-screen action for a more immersive experience — a feature often praised by reviewers.
There are also commercial “invisible speakers” that work on the same principle. When mounted behind walls or ceilings, these systems use surface exciters to make drywall or plaster vibrate, effectively turning structural surfaces into sound emitters.
Benefits for Water Resistance
By removing external speaker holes, Apple would reduce the number of openings through which water could enter. The current iPad mini includes speaker cutouts at both ends and lacks any formal waterproof rating. If redesigned with sealed exciters instead, the tablet could reach water resistance levels closer to those of the iPhone, which carries an IP68 rating (able to survive in six meters of water for up to 30 minutes).
Microphone openings, however, are still likely to remain. The iPad mini typically includes one microphone on the top and another near the rear camera. Apple could rely on gaskets and adhesives around these points to preserve durability without sacrificing sound input.
Possible Limitations
Vibration-based speakers tend to struggle with low frequencies, so bass reproduction could be limited. To counter this, Apple might integrate a secondary speaker or use advanced digital signal processing to boost lower tones.
Another challenge involves how sound spreads. Since the entire surface vibrates rather than two distinct drivers, stereo width can feel narrower. Additionally, if a user’s hands cover vibrating areas, some sound may be absorbed. Adaptive sensors could help by detecting how the device is held and adjusting the vibration pattern in real time.
Other Rumored Features
Aside from its potential new speaker system and improved water resistance, the iPad mini 8 is rumored to adopt an OLED display — making it the first non-Pro iPad to do so. It’s also expected to use Apple’s A19 Pro chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air.
Release Outlook
The redesigned iPad mini could debut as early as 2026, bringing a mix of new materials, enhanced display tech, and possibly a completely reimagined way to deliver sound.
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