For this reason, Apple has chosen to keep the iPad exactly the same design as the older iPad, but with drawbacks, such as a lightning bolt rather than a more modern USB-C. According to some rumors, it will see more substantial updates this year.
USB-C opens up a world of possibilities for iPad users. The interface supports faster transfer speeds and even a wider variety of peripherals, while the Lightning interface is still based on the slower USB 2.0 standard and relies on adapters for almost everything. With USB-C, entry-level iPad users will also be able to easily connect to more modern external displays, such as Apple’s Studio Display.
The next generation of the affordable iPad will have the same 1640×2360 resolution Retina display as the iPad Air, meaning it will also be 10.9 inches diagonally instead of 10.2 inches, to match the latest iPad Air, released in March.
However, support for a wider range of colours and higher brightness will remain the preserve of Apple’s more expensive ipads.
The upcoming economical iPad will have an A14 Bionic chipset and support for 5G. The same source also said that the upcoming economical iPad will come with a USB-C port. So, at this point, Apple will have USB-C on its entire roster of modern tablets.
Oddly enough, Apple didn’t follow suit on their iPhone, insisting instead that they limit themselves to lightning ports. However, if the EU’s latest legislation is anything to go by, they may be forced to switch from lightning port to USB-C.
It’s not clear when the budget iPad will be launched. However, if Apple’s history is anything to go by, the new low-cost iPad may turn up at the iPhone launch event this fall.
