Apple Could Release A Smart Keyboard With A Trackpad This Year

One of the selling points of the iPad Pro is the Smart Keyboard accessory that is sold separately. So far it only acts as a keyboard but according to a report from The Information (paywall), it seems that Apple has plans on upgrading it where a new model with a built-in trackpad could be launched later this year.

One of the criticisms of the iPad is that while it seems like Apple is positioning it as a potentially laptop replacement, it lacked native mouse support, at least until recently where an iOS update finally added support for external mice. So by adding a trackpad to the Smart Keyboard, it will no doubt take productivity to the next level.

That being said, we should point out that this won’t be the first iPad keyboard to support a trackpad. Earlier this year, accessory maker Brydge updated their iPad keyboard accessory with a trackpad, although if you do prefer using official accessories, then the upcoming Smart Keyboard update could be worth keeping an eye out for.

There is currently no word on when the accessory will be launched, but presumably it should be announced alongside the iPad Pro refresh, which last we heard could be taking place towards the end of March. Until then, take it with a grain of salt.

Tyler Lee
Categories: Apple, Rumors, Tablets
Tags: iPad, iPad Pro, keyboards