An earlier report from Mac Otakara revealed that the upcoming iPad Pro models will feature two new 4-pin connectors. As of right now, it is still unclear what these new connectors will be used for.
Mysterious 4-pin connectors reportedly coming to the next-generation iPad Pro models
As per the report, the upcoming 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models will feature the same external design as the current iPad Pro lineup. However, the tablet is set to feature a new connector at the top and bottom.
The interesting part about this is the connectors reportedly feature four pins. The current iPad Pro models feature three pins that can be used to connect to the Magic Keyboard and the MagSafe 3 connector.
The publication suggests that the new four-pin connectors could be used as “a terminal to assist the power supply of peripheral devices connected to the Thunderbolt / USB-C port.” This again begs the question: why are there two sets of these connections at the top and bottom of the device?
The Smart Connector was introduced with the first-generation iPad Pro in 2015. It is used to transfer data between the device and external accessories. The tech giant even added a Thunderbolt port to the lineup last year. So the addition of two new connectors seems confusing. As the launch of the lineup inches closer, we will have to wait and see if any sources reveal the reason for this mysterious addition to the iPad Pro.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has previously stated the tech giant plans to update the current 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models later this year in the fall, with “M2 chips, wireless charging, and upgrades to the camera system.” Furthermore, TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reported that Apple plans to expand mini-LED display tech to the 11-inch iPad Pro by 2022.
In related news, iPad assembly plants in China now facing delays in production due to power outages caused by a heatwave in the region. However, if the power outage ends as scheduled on August 20, Apple suppliers Foxconn and Compal may be able to minimize the impact on their production, given that the tech giant is expected to announce new iPad models in October.
