Rumor Claims Next iPad Pro to Feature New Four-Pin Connectors - MacRumors
Skip to Content

Rumor Claims Next iPad Pro to Feature New Four-Pin Connectors

A new rumor claims that the next-generation 12.9-inch and 11-inch iPad Pro will feature two new four-pin connectors of some sort, distinguished from the current three-pin Smart Connector in the iPad Pro.

ipad pro magic keyboard white
The rumor from Mac Otakara, citing "reliable sources," says that the next iPad Pro, expected to debut possibly as soon as this fall, will feature a new connector on the top and bottom edges of the device that has four pins rather than three. The publication suggests that the new connector could be intended to power accessories connected to the device's Thunderbolt port.

Apple is working on updated versions of both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro that are expected to launch in September or October. It has been recently reported that Apple plans to delay the launch of iPadOS 16 until October, which could coincide with the launch of new iPads. The 2022 iPad Pro will feature the M2 Apple silicon chip and MagSafe charging capabilities. You can learn more about the 2022 iPad Pro with our dedicated guide.

Related Roundup: iPad Pro
Buyer's Guide: iPad Pro (Neutral)

Popular Stories

Surprise and Shine Live Coverage Article

Apple Event Live Blog: iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, and More Expected

Wednesday September 9, 2026 9:10 am PDT by
Apple's "Surprise and Shine" event kicks off today at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, where we're expecting to see the foldable iPhone Duo, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 models, new AirPods 5 earphones, and perhaps some other announcements. Apple is providing a live video stream on its website, on YouTube, and in the company's TV app across various platforms. We...
iphone duo

Apple Announces Foldable 'iPhone Duo'

Wednesday September 9, 2026 10:56 am PDT by
Apple today announced the "iPhone Duo," a new kind of iPhone featuring two screens and a foldable inner display. The two halves of the iPhone Duo connect into a single continuous frame with the same aspect ratio across both displays, and Apple said the transition between open and closed is designed to feel fluid. When fully open, Apple says it is the thinnest iPhone ever made, with an...
apple surprise and shine event

Apple Event Today: iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo Cheat Sheet

Tuesday September 8, 2026 10:24 am PDT by
Apple's biggest event of the year is almost here, and all eyes are on Cupertino. With the first foldable iPhone expected to headline Apple's "Surprise and Shine" event on Wednesday, September 9, at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time, the rumor mill has been running full throttle, fuelled by the biggest single design change in the life of the iPhone. To get you up to speed, here's a quick reference...

Top Rated Comments

53 months ago
Ah yes, another change for the environment so that any 3 pin smart connector accessories won't work with the new models.
Score: 52 Votes (Like | Disagree)
TheDailyApple Avatar
53 months ago

The Smart Connector is used to connect a wide variety of accessories to the iPad
"Wide variety"? I wasn't aware of any other accessories that currently use it besides the keyboard.
Score: 43 Votes (Like | Disagree)
53 months ago
So by extrapolation, in 26 years Apple will introduce a 30-pin connector. Just like the good ol' days of 2003.
Score: 34 Votes (Like | Disagree)
GMShadow Avatar
53 months ago
Hopefully it’s just an extra pin to the side and existing accessories still work…
Score: 29 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BarrettF77 Avatar
53 months ago
Wow Apple is greedy. Basically this means same form factor, but one change to ensure the old case cannot be used.

Tim Crook at it’s finest.
Score: 28 Votes (Like | Disagree)
iDento Avatar
53 months ago
I’ll wait for the 5 pins one.
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)