OnePlus Pad ‘Mini’ Leak Hints at Premium Specs in a Small Tablet

The OnePlus Pad 3 currently stands out in the Android tablet market, boasting top-tier features like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, rapid 80W wired charging, and a spacious 13.2-inch display. However, it appears OnePlus might be planning a different approach for its next tablet generation, potentially shifting towards a more compact form factor.

According to insights from the reputable leaker Digital Chat Station, OnePlus is reportedly developing a “small tablet.” The exciting news is that despite its potentially smaller size, this new device is tipped to retain many of the flagship specifications found in the current Pad 3.

Dubbed tentatively as the “Pad 5 Mini” or possibly “Pad 5s” to align with the brand’s smartphone naming conventions, this upcoming tablet could feature impressive premium components. Rumors suggest it might come equipped with an exceptionally fast display refresh rate, potentially hitting 144Hz or even a high 165Hz. It’s also tipped to support the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard with aptX HD audio codec for superior wireless sound quality.

The Rise of Premium Compact Tablets

This potential move by OnePlus isn’t an isolated trend. The Android tablet market is seeing other manufacturers explore the concept of powerful performance in a more portable package. For example, Redmi is preparing to launch its own compact tablet, the Redmi K Pad. This device is confirmed to feature the high-performance MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor.

The Redmi K Pad is also set to emphasize its display, reportedly packing an “industry-leading” 8.8-inch IPS LCD panel with a sharp 3K+ resolution and a speedy 165Hz refresh rate, utilizing advanced dual IC drivers. Redmi’s focus on delivering such high-end display technology and performance in a smaller, likely more affordable (around $557 USD based on current pricing), tablet highlights a growing segment for users who want power and portability without compromising on key features.

This trend reinforces the plausibility of OnePlus offering similar premium characteristics, like a high refresh rate display and flagship-level internal components, in their rumored small tablet.

Designed for More Than Just Basics?

High refresh rate displays, particularly in the 144Hz-165Hz range, are often associated with gaming devices, as noted by companies like Lenovo. While there’s no definitive proof yet that the rumored compact OnePlus Pad will be marketed specifically as a gaming tablet, the inclusion of such a feature is noteworthy.

Furthermore, OnePlus is slated to take over responsibility for Oppo’s mobile gaming market in the future. Its recent involvement in developing e-sports course material in China underscores a strategic focus on this area. Pairing a powerful, compact tablet with a high refresh rate display could naturally position it as an attractive option for mobile gamers seeking performance on the go.

While details remain preliminary, the prospect of a smaller OnePlus Pad packing flagship-grade specs suggests an exciting evolution in the brand’s tablet lineup and the broader Android tablet landscape. Users looking for a potent, portable tablet experience might soon have another compelling option.