Apple is rumoured to be launching an eighth-generation entry-level iPad soon, and a new report suggests it might look a lot like the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro models.
91mobiles published design drawings of the alleged new Apple slab, complete with Face ID array, USB-C port, and Smart Connector on the back, suggesting the tablet could bwe compatible with the iPad Pro’s Magic Keyboard accessory.
The current seventh-generation iPad costs from £359, while the Magic Keyboard for the 11in iPad Pro costs £299. With the eighth-gen iPad said to have a screen size of 10.84, it might fit the accessory.
The report also says the iPad will have a single camera, dual speakers, four mics, and an inductive charging port, possibly for the Apple Pencil as seen on the iPad Pro.
We would certainly welcome such a massive upgrade to Apple’s cheapest iPad, particularly if it had all these features for such a low price. But it also makes us think this could possibly be a leak for the mid-tier iPad Air, as it might not be possible for Apple to cram so much of the iPad Pro’s tech into the entry-level iPad.
While it’s true that the iPad needs a bit of a design refresh, it’s more likely that Apple will filter down iPad Pro features to the Air line first.
Apple is said to be hosting an online launch in September for the iPhone 12 where we might also see this iPad launched.
