Apple could introduce trackpad capabilities to the iPad in 2020, according to reports.
According to reports from The Information, Apple has been experimenting with new ideas for the iPad to further encourage consumers to make the switch over from cheaper PCs and tablets.
Apple’s controversial ‘What’s a Computer?’ campaign was designed to show that the future of personal computing is via an iPad, but some simply prefer a mouse and trackpad.
A source told The Information that Apple had been playing around with concepts for a trackpad for a “number of years,” and that the keyboard will be made from similar materials to Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio case, suggesting it will be more plastic than a glass pad.
Production on the new keyboard with trackpad has reportedly begun, and it’s widely predicted that the accessory will be made available for sale alongside the new iPad, which could come as soon as March if rumors of a special event on March 31 are to be believed.
Should Apple launch a new keyboard with trackpad, it will be the first time that a trackpad has been made available on the iPad, and it’s likely that a software update would be needed in order for the trackpad to work.
Prior to this news, Apple ruled out the idea of a mouse on the iPad, though did introduce limited mouse support as an accessibility feature in iOS 13.
Earlier in the year, DigiTimes reported that Apple had been working on a Smart Keyboard with backlit keys and scissor switches, so it’s entirely possible that the updated Keyboard will have these features and offer consumers a more laptop-like experience when on their iPads.
Would you be here for a trackpad on your iPad? Would it change the way you worked? Let us know your thoughts and check back soon for more news and rumors on everything Apple, every week.
