Apple is reportedly working on introducing a new iPad dock that will transform the tablet into a smart display.
According to reports Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) is working on a new dock for its iPad series to enhance the tablet’s functionality. The tech giant’s new iPad dock will be capable of turning the devices into a smart display upon user preference. By connecting to a dock that also houses a speaker, the iPad can charge and offer attractive aesthetics while in non-use storage.
Apple’s projected iPad dock is slated for release sometime in 2023. The device is the company’s first major push into the home in a while. Meanwhile, the launch, Apple plans to debut two new iPad Pros this month – an 11-inch and a 12.9-inch model. In addition, the tech giant plans to deliver its latest software update for its tablets, iPadOS 16. Previously, Apple typically released the iPad software alongside its smartphone iOS. However, this year, the California-based company delayed the update, explaining that the iPad is its own major product category. As a result, it deserves its own release date – although many speculate that the delay was due to problems with the iPad Stage Manager.
Powered by Apple’s latest M2 processor, the new devices will carry over the same sleek design from last year’s model. Previous reports stated that the tablet would have a glass back for wireless charging. However, this no longer seems to be the case.
There are also reportedly new Mac laptops, with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, on the way. However, these computers may not arrive at the same time as the iPad Pro tablets. According to a Forbes article, “… [the Macs] are only days away as well [from releasing], just not quite as close as the tablets.”
New Apple iPad Dock Reportedly Influenced by Google Pixel Tablet Approach
A source states that the upcoming Apple iPad dock could attempt to mimic the approach of the recently unveiled Google Pixel Tablet. At its launch event, Google stated that the new Pixel 7 series would double as a smart display. Revealing that the Android smart devices will ship with a magnetic dock that aids this versatility, the multinational tech company explained at the time:
“Pixel Tablet pairs with a magnetic speaker dock to keep your device fully charged 24/7, delivering the best features of a smart display to a tablet. Pixel Tablet is designed to seamlessly transition from an at home display to an entertainment device you can take anywhere – making it one of the most versatile tablets that easily adapts to you.”
Reports suggest that Pixel tablet customers would choose between two magnetic docks codenamed korlan and yuzu. The duo will likely sync with the tablet using the pogo pins on its back for the seamless smart display transition. In addition, Google Pixel Tablet users will also be privy to a host of operability-enhancing options. These include personalizing the UI to their preference and accessing smart home controls and reminders on the device.
Tolu is a cryptocurrency and blockchain enthusiast based in Lagos. He likes to demystify crypto stories to the bare basics so that anyone anywhere can understand without too much background knowledge.
When he’s not neck-deep in crypto stories, Tolu enjoys music, loves to sing and is an avid movie lover.
