Apple may have revealed a clue about its next iPad mini through a new accessory listing on its French regulatory website. The company has listed a Smart Folio with model number A3632, which does not match any iPad mini case it has sold so far.
The listing appeared recently alongside accessories for the iPhone 18 Pro, which were added in September. Although the document is dated September 9, its exact publication date remains unclear.
The new listing does not reveal the tablet’s specifications. However, its material details suggest Apple may have changed the design of the accessory.
According to the filing, the new Smart Folio contains at least 3% recycled materials. That is lower than the current model’s minimum of 9%. Meanwhile, its rare earth element content has increased from 3,947mg to at least 6,610mg. This change could point to adjustments in the magnets used to attach the cover to the tablet.
The model number is particularly interesting because the iPad mini released in 2021 and the 2024 model share the same Smart Folio. Therefore, a new accessory number could indicate physical changes to the upcoming tablet. However, Apple has not confirmed whether existing cases will be incompatible with the new model.
Previous reports suggest the next iPad mini will feature an OLED display and a more water-resistant design. The tablet is expected to arrive later this month, with an announcement reportedly scheduled for October 27 or 28.
Apple may unveil the new iPad mini alongside its touchscreen MacBook models. A recent leak has already pointed to the expected launch timing of both products, adding to speculation about Apple’s upcoming hardware lineup.
