WSJ: Apple is Considering Adding USB 3.0 Ports to Its Larger iPad

The WSJ confirms that Apple has told suppliers to start production of its larger iPad in the second half of 2015 as it contemplates new designs and features for enterprise. It had originally planned to start production in the first half of 2015.

Bloomberg first reported the production delay earlier today.

Notably, the site says Apple is considering the addition of USB 3.0 ports.


Apple is now considering adding USB ports and adopting so-called USB 3.0 technology, a much faster version that promises to transfer data up to 10 times as rapidly as current USB ports, one of the people said. It is especially useful when users are transferring large amounts of data, such as backing up computers to USB-connected hard disks. Currently, Apple’s 9.7-inch iPad and 7.9-inch iPad Mini don't come with a USB port.

“Apple has continued to rework some of the features of the larger iPad. It is now considering the faster technology for data synchronization between the larger iPad and other computing devices,” said their source. “Apple is also working on technology to speed up the iPad charging time, but it remains uncertain if the final design will have these new features.”

Finally, Apple is also said to be considering the addition of ports to connect a keyboard and mouse.

Of course, it's unclear if any of these features will make the final cut and go into production. Apple refused to comment on the report.


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