Accessory makers are already manufacturing cases for Apple’s next-generation iPad Pros. According to two that have leaked early, they’ll come with tweaked designs, while the new 10.5-inch model could have a taller display.
Despite shrinking sales, Apple isn’t giving up on the iPad lineup. Its new 9.7-inch model is selling well and demand is expected to increase next quarter, while refreshed iPad Pros are rumored to appear as early as next month at WWDC.
In addition to some minor adjustments to the 12.9-inch model, including a new A11 processor, Apple will reportedly introduce its brand-new 10.5-inch iPad Pro. We thought this would be no bigger than its 9.7-inch predecessor, but we thought wrong.
New cases, leaked by Shai Mizrachi on Twitter, reveal the device will be slightly bigger after all, and noticeably taller. A 9.7-inch iPad Pro fits comfortably inside the case with ample room to spare, particularly around its top edge.
The device shouldn’t feel significantly larger, however. Apple is expected to reduce the size of the bezels around the iPad’s display (finally!) so that the new 10.5-inch display fits inside a form factor just as manageable as that of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro.
The cases also reveal other minor design changes, like the relocation of the iPad Pro’s microphone, which now sits on the top of the device like it did in the past, rather that on its side.
Of course, case manufacturers don’t get their hands on iPad specifications early, so it’s likely these were designed based on rumors. They don’t confirm anything just yet, and it’s possible the final design of the new iPad Pros will be different.