Apple To Create New iPad Pro Smart Keyboard: Everything To Know

Apple will refresh the iPad Pro and create a new Smart Keyboard accessory that will offer more than just a better typing experience, a report has claimed.

Apple's latest 16-inch MacBook Pro boasts of the new keyboard that took the place of the troubled Butterfly keyboard in previous years. While the introduction of the new keyboard reminiscent of the Magic Keyboard is good news, not a lot of people can enjoy its durability and feel, and this is because it is currently limited to the new device.

Previous reports said that according to noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the Cupertino tech giant will replace the Butterfly keyboard on all MacBooks this year. A new report, on the other hand, suggests that new iPads will get the new keyboard too.

According to Taiwanese tech publication Digitimes, Apple “is likely to extend the adoption of glowing scissor switch keyboards to its new iPad lineup, with prospects of continuing such design for the comprehensive lineups of its notebook and tablet products in the future. This information, as per the tech site, is “according to industry sources.”

Now what does this report mean? Here are some possibilities:

A new iPad Pro with a new Smart Keyboard

First and foremost, it could mean that a new iPad Pro and a new smart keyboard is coming this year, MacRumors noted. The new Smart Keyboard could feature the same scissor-switch mechanism used in the 16-inch MacBook Pro, and will match its feel and durability.

Backlit keys

Next, the new Smart Keyboard, as Digitimes reported, will be “glowing,” i.e. have backlit keys. This will make the new Smart Keyboard more useful while making it look better, Forbes noted. This is because existing Smart Keyboards aren't backlit and will require users to type beneath light fixtures to see what's being pressed (unless the user has memorized all keys and has no need to look while typing).

The new Smart Keyboard, then, will be a match for the 16-inch MacBook Pro's keyboard. It will have the same mechanism underneath, and will also be backlit for use in dimly-lit situations. This means it will be more comfortable, more durable, and will look better too.