Apple has never been particularly chatty when it comes to future plans and RnD. Still, most analysts believe we can expect refreshed vanilla iPads and iPad Airs in 2022, as well as new Pro models. You can read more of the base iPad and Air predictions here as we focus on the new iPad Pro designs.
The issue of wireless charging has been a topic of discussion since Apple introduced its MagSafe wireless charging technology for iPhones. According to the latest news from industry insiders, Apple is already experimenting with at least one 2022 iPad Pro prototype with MagSafe.
Well, a variant of it, that’s it. Cupertino was particularly hesitant about swapping the iPad’s traditional metal back for a glass back to facilitate wireless charging, the sources said. Instead, the proposed solution is a large glass Apple logo, similar to the latest MacBook models. The prototype also allegedly has stronger magnets to prevent accidental detachment.
We have to wonder if Apple is really planning, or if it’s possible to use the MagSafe magnet mounting system in a more general way as a way to attach accessories like keyboards and stands to the iPad in a seamless and clean way. This will be very interesting, especially for keyboards, as some users have been complaining that the connected Magic Keyboard is draining battery power excessively. Perhaps the newer models will be designed to charge the tablet in some way, as some kind of dock, rather than drawing power from the battery.
iPad 10.2 (2021) • iPad Air (2020) • iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 (2021)
Speaking of batteries, most sources agree that the next iPad Pro may come with a larger battery pack. Also on the list of potential new additions – a camera module similar to the one on the iPhone 13, possibly a new and brighter dual-layer OLED panel. Maybe even a notch to unify the aesthetic with the MacBook line? Thankfully, though, that last piece of news doesn’t pop up as often as the rumor mill. We might even see the debut of the Apple M2 chip. After all, Apple experienced a big jump in iPad sales in the fourth quarter, so it might make sense to improve them more aggressively. At least the Pro model, the new Mini, seems to be stepping on the toes of the iPhone 13 and its sales, so we don’t expect big moves there.
