According to the team at 9to5Mac, a source has provided them with information pointing to the next entry-level iPad having USB-C. While this isn’t unexpected, given the iPad Pro, Air and Mini all have it, bringing USB-C to the entry-level also removes a barrier to entry for many potential buyers.
This year, Apple has been working on more significant upgrades for its cheaper iPad. Information seen by 9to5Mac reveals that the new 10th-generation iPad (codenamed J272) will feature a USB-C port instead of Lightning.
While this will rely on a few factors, this adds a lot of functionality to the iPad that previously was only available on the — far more expensive — iPad Pro. This includes external (not Apple-specific) accessories, higher data speeds and external displays.
The current entry-level Samsung tablets are around $350, then jump to $550 and up. This makes the iPad a remarkably attractive option compared to similarly specced devices.
While there isn’t yet a clear indication of exactly when the new iPad will launch, it will happen. This leaves a few questions, assuming the iPad price remains the same:
- Will the new iPad with USB-C make a dent in the Android tablet market?
- Will the Pixel Tablet be the saviour?
- or will it be too late?
