Next-Generation iPad Mini 8: Innovative Design and Vibration-Based Sound Technology

The upcoming iPad mini 8 may feature a revamped design that eliminates traditional speaker holes to enhance water resistance, with Apple exploring a novel speaker system based on vibration technology. According to Bloomberg, this approach could set a new standard among Apple products if adopted widely.

Vibration-Based Sound Technology

Apple's potential implementation involves using a sound exciter—an electronic device that generates sound by vibrating surfaces such as glass panels or metal frames. This technology employs piezo or electromagnetic exciters, which resonate surfaces to produce audio without needing traditional speakers with diaphragms.

It is speculated that Apple might attach these exciters to the ‌iPad mini‌'s chassis or display. When audio is played, the exciters vibrate the device's surface, moving air to generate sound, thus removing the necessity for speaker holes and improving water resistance.

Support for Stereo Sound

Given the size of the ‌iPad mini‌'s display, multiple exciters could be deployed to deliver stereo sound by dividing the screen into sub-panels acting as separate diaphragms, creating an immersive audio experience.

Apple’s Patented Innovations

Apple has filed patents describing systems akin to these ideas. One such patent, titled "mechanically actuated panel acoustic system," details an enclosure divided into sub-panels, each with actuators that vibrate to produce sound, converting electrical signals into acoustic output.

Real-World Examples of Vibration Speakers

Some devices already utilize vibration-based sound technology:

Huawei P30 Pro (2019): Featured "Acoustic Display Technology" with an under-display tiny exciter vibrating the glass, turning the entire screen into a speaker. However, this technology was limited mostly to calls, with stereo sound lacking in the initial implementation.
LG G8 ThinQ: Used the entire OLED display as a diaphragm vibrating to produce sound, paired with a bottom speaker for stereo output.
Sony OLED TVs: Incorporate "Acoustic Surface" technology, where multiple actuators vibrate the screen to generate sound directly from the display, enabling precise visual-audio alignment and immersive experiences.

Water Resistance and Design Considerations

Removing the speaker holes offers the benefit of improved water resistance, reducing ingress points. Currently, the ‌iPad mini‌ lacks an official water resistance rating, but Apple’s iPhone models feature IP68 ratings, enabling them to withstand submersion.

If Apple removes speaker holes, microphone openings will likely remain, as they are essential for voice input and calling. These could be sealed with gaskets and adhesive to maintain water resistance without impairing functionality.

Potential Challenges

Bass Performance: Vibration-based systems can struggle with low-frequency sounds. Sony’s TVs use dedicated subwoofers for bass, and Apple might need hybrid solutions or digital processing to compensate.
Sound Width and Realism: Surface speakers may produce a narrower perceived soundstage compared to traditional stereo speakers, as vibrations originate from one surface rather than several distinct drivers.
Touch Damping: The user’s touch can dampen vibrations, potentially affecting sound quality. Apple could implement sensors to detect how the device is held, dynamically adjusting vibration patterns to optimize audio.

Other iPad Mini 8 Features

Alongside water resistance, rumors suggest the ‌iPad mini‌ 8 might be the first non-pro iPad to feature an OLED display, advancing display technology. The device is expected to run on the powerful A19 Pro chip, similar to that in recent iPhones such as the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro.

Launch Outlook

The iPad mini 8 could debut as early as 2026, introducing innovative hardware features and enhanced user experiences.

For more updates and discussion, visit the iPad forum.