Next Generation iPad Pro to Get New 4-pin Connectors?

Apple's next generation 12.9-inch and 11-inch iPad Pros will get "4-pin connectors on the top and bottom side edges," according to a new report from Macotakara.

The site notes that the current Smart Connector has 3 pins and the MagSafe 3 connector has 5 pins, suggesting that new connectors will serve some other purpose.

We expect that the 4-pin connector may be a terminal to assist in powering peripherals that connect to the Thunderbolt/USB-C port on the M1 chip-equipped iPad, as macOS' DriverKit will be available starting with iPadOS 16.


We aren't exactly clear on how this new connector will work. Perhaps it will replace the Smart Connector while maintaining backwards compatibility.

Apple is expected to unveil its new iPad Pro models in October, alongside iPadOS 16. You can download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for updates ahead of their release.