Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has shed some light on Apple’s upcoming releases. According to Gurman, the tech giant is set to announce a new AirPods Pro 2 case with USB-C connectivity at its September 12 event, “Wonderlust.” In addition to this, Apple is working on a redesigned Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro. The new accessory is reportedly going to bridge the gap between the iPad Pro serving as a tablet and a laptop.
AirPods Pro 2 to ditch Lightning in favor of USB-C
In the latest edition of the “Power On,” newsletter for Bloomberg, Gurman revealed that Apple is planning to release a new version of the second-generation AirPods Pro case during the iPhone 15 “Wonderlust” event.
While no other hardware changes are expected, this update signifies a crucial step for Apple. It marks a shift away from Lightning to USB-C, a transition that will likely extend to the entire AirPods lineup in the future.
This decision aligns with Apple’s commitment to standardizing USB-C across its products, simplifying connectivity and compatibility for users. So, while the exterior might remain largely unchanged, this shift beneath the surface sets the stage for a more streamlined tech ecosystem.
Moreover, Gurman discussed exciting software-based features for the AirPods Pro coming with iOS 17, and there are also promising developments in the realm of hearing aid capabilities over the next year.
Lastly, if you’re eyeing the lower-end AirPods models, Gurman predicts price cuts as USB-C becomes the norm across the lineup. This means that more users will have access to the convenience and quality that AirPods bring.
Magic Keyboard for 2024 iPad Pro will come with an aluminum top case
Apple’s iPad Pro lineup has always been a symbol of cutting-edge technology, and next year’s model is no exception. According to Gurman, the 2024 iPad Pro is going to take a giant leap toward becoming a true laptop replacement.
The star of the show is going to be the redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory. The keyboard will reportedly sport a larger trackpad, making navigation and multitasking a breeze. But it doesn’t stop there. The accessory will be constructed from sturdy aluminum, mirroring the top case of MacBooks. This change aims to address criticisms of the current model and enhance durability.
While the exterior will still feature the familiar silicone cover material, the accessory will feature a USB-C port. With these premium materials and improvements, it’s possible that the cost of the accessory could see a bump from its current price tag of $299.
As for the iPad Pro itself, expect some fundamental changes. The M3 Apple silicon chip will undoubtedly deliver blazing performance and OLED displays are set to promise brilliant visuals. In addition to this, Apple will reportedly offer slightly larger size options with 11- and 13-inch models.
