Apple will replace the Lightning Port on the next-generation “iPad Air 4” in favour of USB-C, according to a report from Japanese site Mac Otakara who cites a supplier readying the new hardware amid rumors of the device launching during the second half of 2020.
According to the report, Apple is basing the new iPad Air on the 11-inch iPad Pro, with reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo saying in an earlier report that the key selling point of the iPad will be “the affordable price tag and the adoption of fast chips,” much like the new iPhone SE.
Kuo also went on to suggest a new iPad mini would launch in 2021, again with faster chips and an affordable price point, with today’s report from Mac Otakara saying the new iPad mini would continue to feature a Lightning Port rather than USB-C.
Chinese supplier says iPad Air (4th generation) will have a specification with USB-C connector while iPad mini 8.5-inch will have lightning connector. – As iPad Air (3rd generation) was developed based on iPad Pro (10.5-inch), iPad Air (4th generation) may be developed based on iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) by downgrading the rear camera features.
Rumors had claimed the new iPad Air could feature under-the-screen Touch ID, but no evidence has so far strengthened this.