Apple is set to expand its iPad accessory lineup with a more affordable version of its popular Magic Keyboard. According to recent reports, this new budget-friendly option could bring premium features to a wider range of iPad users.
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| A modern tablet paired with a sleek keyboard, symbolizing Apple's upcoming budget-friendly Magic Keyboard accessory for iPad users |
A New Magic in the Making
Renowned Apple insider Mark Gurman of Bloomberg has revealed that Apple's suppliers are currently working on a new Magic Keyboard. This accessory is expected to cater to the base model iPad and the iPad Air, offering a more accessible price point compared to the premium version designed for the iPad Pro.
Key Features to Look Forward To
While the new keyboard may lack some of the high-end features of its pricier counterpart, it's rumored to include some exciting additions:
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Function row: Unlike the current iPad Air Magic Keyboard, this new model is expected to feature a row of function keys, enhancing user control over common settings like brightness and volume.
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Improved design: The budget keyboard is likely to adopt a design more similar to the true Magic Keyboards, moving away from the less lap-friendly design of the current Magic Keyboard Folio.
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Cost-effective materials: To keep prices down, Apple may opt for a silicone top case instead of aluminum. This could potentially offer improved grip and shock absorption.
Release Timeline and Compatibility
If development proceeds as planned, we could see this new Magic Keyboard hit the market by mid-2025. It's possible that the accessory could debut alongside a new entry-level iPad, potentially the iPad 11.
Streamlining the Lineup
This move appears to be part of Apple's broader strategy to streamline its iPad keyboard offerings. The new keyboard could potentially replace both the Magic Keyboard Folio (introduced in 2022 for the 10th generation iPad) and the older Magic Keyboard for iPad Air (released in 2020).
What This Means for Users
By introducing a more affordable Magic Keyboard with enhanced features, Apple aims to make the iPad an even more versatile productivity tool for a wider range of users. This could be particularly appealing to students, casual users, and professionals looking for a more budget-conscious option without sacrificing too much functionality.
While we await official confirmation from Apple, this development suggests an exciting future for iPad accessories, potentially bringing premium typing experiences to more users than ever before.