Alleged iPad Pro (2018) case showcases mystery rear design element

[Ulquiorra]

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Among the long list of products that Apple is expected to unveil in September is an updated iPad Pro lineup. This will consist of a 12.9-inch model and an 11-inch variant that will replace the outgoing 12.9-inch and 10.5-inch devices respectively.

Design wise, the two are expected to adopt a new bezel-less design up front and a typical Apple design on the rear. However, recent schematics, which are now being backed up by a leaked case that has been designed for Apple’s 11-inch model, revealed a mysterious design element towards the bottom of the rear panel. Overall, the feature appears to resemble the typical fingerprint scanner that can be found on a number of Android smartphones. Considering Apple’s commitment to Face ID over the past year, however, it seems unlikely that the brand would make such an effort just to maintain the sensor, especially with in-display fingerprint scanners just around the corner.

Instead, the design feature is most likely a rear Smart Connector that will be used with a wide variety of accessories when the tablet is being used vertically. But, for those who prefer to use the tablet horizontally, the case also reveals a cutout for the current Smart Connector that is positioned on the frame of the tablet lineup. Curiously, though, the connector has seemingly been moved to the other side of the device.

Due to the lack of official renders or confirmation from Apple, it’s worth noting that this is all purely speculation at this point. Nevertheless, with just three weeks to go until the expected unveiling, it shouldn’t be too long before the new design element’s purpose is known.
 

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