According to 9to5Mac, there are rumors that Apple will launch a new iPad later this month. Now, accessory makers have started selling redesigned (and non-existent) cases for the 10th-generation iPad ahead of the official launch, suggesting that a new product is indeed imminent.
As Japanese website MacOtaraka points out, popular accessory maker ESR has added new cases for the 10th generation iPad to its Japanese Amazon shop page. While the iPad renders are unlikely to be official, the cases give us an idea of what to expect from the new entry-level iPad model.
For example, these cases have a larger cutout for the camera module, which is similar to the cutouts on the iPad Air 4 and iPad Air 5. One of the cases attaches magnetically to the iPad, while the other, more robust case has holes on the side for a new power button with Touch ID and a magnetic Apple Pencil charger, suggesting that this iPad will have the same design as the more modern iPad.
ESR states in the product description that the new case is not compatible with the older entry-level iPads, which again confirms the new design.
Earlier this year, 9to5Mac revealed exclusive details about the 10th-generation iPad. According to the news, iPad 10 (codenamed J272) will feature the A14 Bionic chip, which is around 30% faster than the A13 chip that powers the 9th generation iPad. The new entry-level iPad is also expected to support 5G connectivity, a USB-C port (instead of Lightning), a slightly larger display, and a better camera.
Of course, there’s nothing very special about this iPad compared to the current iPad Air and iPad Pro, but it’s worth noting that this will be the first time Apple has brought a more modern design and technologies like 5G and USB-C to its most affordable iPad. The 9th generation iPad still has the huge bezel around the display, the Lightning port, and Touch ID built into the Home button.
Interestingly, ESR has also started selling cases for the unreleased iPad Pro models on Amazon Japan. According to rumors, Apple is also expected to launch a new generation of iPad Pro with the M2 chip in the next few weeks.
Last month, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reported that Apple could launch the new iPad and Mac in October via a press conference rather than a special event. according to Gurman, Apple also plans to announce the long-awaited Mac Pro with the Apple Silicon chip by the end of this year.
