Apple has finally pulled back the curtain on the battery capacity of the new iPad mini (2026), ending weeks of speculation. Thanks to its listing in the EU’s EPREL database, we now have definitive numbers—battery capacity, durability, and performance expectations are all on record. Here’s everything you need to know.
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## Battery Capacity Confirmed: 4,900 mAh
While Apple officially stated the iPad mini (2026) has a battery rated at 18.9 Wh, it did not provide the milliampere-hour (mAh) figure. The recent EPREL listing under model number A3596 fills that gap—it confirms the battery capacity as **4,900 mAh**. That’s a slight decrease compared to the iPad mini (2024), which featured a battery of **5,078 mAh (19.3 Wh)**.
This reduction aligns with the design changes: the newest model is **nearly 1 mm thinner** and is **roughly 40 grams lighter** than its predecessor.
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## Charge Cycles, Testing, and Battery Longevity
The EPREL database also reveals that Apple expects this device’s battery to handle **1,000 complete charge cycles** before its capacity falls to 80% of the original. According to EU-standard testing, a single full charge delivers up to **78 hours of battery life**.
Keep in mind, the battery is **non-user-replaceable**, and Apple recommends using a charger capable of delivering at least **20 watts**.
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## Device Durability, Ratings, and Specs
Additional details in the EPREL listing provide insights into durability and regulatory certifications:
– **Water and dust protection**: IP67 rating.
– **Scratch resistance**: Mohs scale level 4, though this is a minimum threshold, not necessarily the maximum.
– **Drop resistance**: Survived 57 falls during testing without defects.
The mini earns:
– **Energy efficiency class** D
– **Repairability class** C
– **Drop resistance rating** D
Apple also promises a minimum of **five years of software updates** for the device.
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## Availability and Pricing
Pre-orders are underway. The iPad mini (2026) starts at:
– **US**: $699
– **Europe**: €749
– **UK**: £699
Ships begin reaching customers on **November 6, 2026**.
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## Why These Details Matter
Knowing the exact battery capacity, expected lifespan, and the durability ratings helps consumers assess real-world performance—not just in hours of use, but in long-term value. The slightly smaller battery might concern some, but the thinner, lighter design could make the trade-off worthwhile for those valuing portability. Battery cycle count and software support reassure buyers about the iPad mini‘s longevity.
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This article is AI-generated content. Please verify the information independently before taking any action based on this article.
