The next-generation iPad Pro could come with a cover that sports a secondary display, a built-in keyboard and solar panels that would allow the iPad Pro to charge itself, according to a new patent that Apple has been recently granted.
This secondary display could be used to display text notifications while the iPad Pro is closed, or could even be used as a drawing pad in conjunction with the Apple Pencil. Even more exciting, that drawing pad, alongside the cover’s built-in keyboard could possibly be used as a touchpad as well. This means that the next generation iPad Pro may have an officially Apple sanctioned setup that is similar to how many laptops currently work.
Considering that the 12.9-inch iPad Pro costs as much $1,229 for the highest end model (256 GB with cellular connection), which is smack dab in Microsoft’s Surface Pro 4 tablet/laptop hybrid $899-$1,799’s price range, this recent patent could mean that Apple is considering finding a sweet spot between the laptop and tablet in their device offerings.
The ideas featured in the patent use the Smart Connector ports that were unveiled with the 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros. The Smart Connector ports are rumored to be included with the iPhone as well, either with the iPhone 7 or the iPhone 8. This, of course, hinges on whether Apple decides to remove the headphone jack port in favor of routing audio through the Lightning cable. The Smart Connector ports would allow the auxiliary cable-less iPhone to charge while letting users listen to audio at same time.
Currently, the Smart Connector ports allow the iPad Pro to connect to the Smart Keyboard accessory.
