Apple’s upcoming iPad mini could finally get a smarter design tweak for video calls. Leaked images and code assets reportedly show the front-facing FaceTime camera being relocated from the short edge to the long edge of the device. That change could place the lens above the screen in landscape orientation—matching the setup seen in larger iPads and making video calls feel more natural.
What the Leak Reveals
The visual assets in Apple’s internal code focus only on the front of this next iPad mini, so its rear design remains a mystery for now. In the current model, the front camera is centered on the short edge. When the tablet’s turned sideways for landscape use, the camera ends up awkwardly off to one side, even though Center Stage—and its face-tracking AI—can follow you around.
The leaked imagery also shows a narrow groove running across the top of the display glass when the device is in portrait orientation. Earlier rumors hinted that this could be tied to a vibration-based speaker design that may replace traditional speaker holes and improve water resistance. However, how that groove functions in practice is still unclear.
Further details point to Apple preparing an “A20 Pro” chip for this version of the iPad mini—recent leaks had already suggested that particular chip. Also expected is an OLED panel, though the newly leaked artwork doesn’t confirm the display type.
When It Might Arrive
While the code-based images show that Apple is already working on this redesign, there’s no official confirmation on release timing. Some earlier reports speculated that the new model could appear by the end of October, but as of now, Apple hasn’t publicly announced anything.
This matters.Relocating the front camera is more than just a tweak—it’s a user experience upgrade. When placed on the long edge, the camera aligns with how people naturally use the device in landscape mode, whether for video calls, gaming, or media. Centered framing improves comfort and usability, something users have long asked for.
As for what to watch: if you’re eyeing this iPad mini, keep an eye on Apple’s announcement cycle. Seeing the A20 Pro chip cited, OLED rumors, and this camera repositioning coalesce in code suggests we may be closer than ever to a meaningful refresh—one that brings greatly improved front-facing usability to Apple’s smallest iPad.
