The next iteration of the Magic Keyboard for the 2024 iPad Pro is set for a major upgrade, according to Mark Gurman’s recent Power On Newsletter for Bloomberg. Notably, this marks the first time that the Magic Keyboard will incorporate aluminum materials into its design, making the iPad Pro resemble a laptop more closely than ever before.
The aluminum component specifically refers to the area between the keys where users rest their palms, a change that aims to add a premium feel to the keyboard. Besides lending the device an air of sophistication, the aluminum base is also expected to make the accessory more robust. Interestingly, the exterior shell of the Magic Keyboard will continue to feature the current rubbery material.
Another key update will be a larger trackpad surface area, aimed at facilitating smoother and more intuitive cursor movements on the iPad. This aligns with the overarching theme of transforming the iPad Pro into a device that can effectively substitute for a traditional laptop.
While the introduction of aluminum into the Magic Keyboard’s construction is significant, Gurman indicates that the change in materials will not substantially affect the accessory’s weight. However, it remains to be seen whether the usage of premium materials like aluminum will result in a price hike.
Currently, the Magic Keyboard is priced at $299 for the 11-inch iPad Pro and $349 for the 12.9-inch model.