Rumor Claims Next iPad Pro to Feature New Four-Pin Connectors - MacRumorsOpen MenuShow RoundupsShow Forums menuVisit ForumsOpen Sidebar
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 (Caution)

Popular Stories

iOS 27 Next to iPhone

Here's When iOS 27 Rolls Out Today in Every Time Zone [Update: It's Out]

Sunday September 13, 2026 3:00 am PDT by
Update 10:04 a.m.: iOS 27 is rolling out now, though it may take a bit for all users to see it, so keep checking! Apple is about to release iOS 27, which will finally deliver more advanced Siri AI capabilities as well as a variety of other refinements, improvements, and new features to iPhones. It's Apple's biggest software update of the year, and Apple announced at Wednesday's iPhone event...
iOS 27 Icon iPhone

iOS 27 Available Now With These 8 New Features

Monday September 14, 2026 9:00 am PDT by
Update — 10 a.m. Pacific Time: Apple has released iOS 27. During its iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo event last week, Apple announced that iOS 27 will be released widely on Monday, September 14. iOS 27 should be available around 10 a.m. Pacific Time / 1 p.m. Eastern Time today via the Settings app, under General → Software Update. Below, we have highlighted eight new features and...
Apple iCloud Plus expansion hero

iCloud+ Now Includes Apple TV, Apple Arcade, and Curated Apple Music Stations in Over 100 Countries

Tuesday September 15, 2026 1:43 am PDT by
Apple today announced a new subscription initiative that turns paid iCloud+ subscriptions into a broader services bundle in more than 100 countries. In select countries, Apple says every paid iCloud+ plan, including the cheapest 50GB tier, now includes Apple TV and Apple Arcade "at no additional cost," while family sharing extends the storage, TV and Arcade access to up to five people....

Top Rated Comments

54 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
54 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)
54 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
54 months ago
Hopefully it’s just an extra pin to the side and existing accessories still work…
Score: 29 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BarrettF77 Avatar
54 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
54 months ago
I’ll wait for the 5 pins one.
Score: 26 Votes (Like | Disagree)

🔗 Related Apple News & Rumors

Stay updated with the latest Apple ecosystem news and verified rumors