iPad Pro 2018

Apple’s release of iOS 12.1 earlier today has already given us a peek at a new feature: Memoji syncing. In that article, I suggested that this feature would make sense with the release of new iPads with a TrueDepth camera system later this year. Currently, Memoji is only supported on the iPhone – but adding support to the iPad would mean users would want to sync their characters between each device.

Now, iOS 12.1 offers another hint at new iPad models coming this year.



Digging into assets used by the Setup app, which is the app that runs when you set up a new device, we found a new identifier for a “2018 fall” iPad. The previous version of the app only included identifiers for the 2018 iPhones. This means the app is being updated to teach users how to use the new gestures on a new model of iPad to be released this fall.

Earlier today, we reported on new evidence that landscape support for Face ID is coming. This, combined with the icon found by us earlier and the new Memoji sync feature, already served as good indication of new iPads coming soon. Now, this new identifier found in iOS 12.1 basically confirms new iPads for this year. If Apple follows their usual schedule, it means we’ll see have another event in October.

Several reports have suggested that Apple has new iPad Pro models in the works for this year. Most recently, Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the new 2018 iPad Pros will feature USB-C connectivity instead of Lightning. While some had anticipated Apple would unveil the new iPad models at its September event, that turned out not to be the case. It now seems likely that Apple will hold another event in October for new iPads and Macs.

Apple is widely expected to hold an event this month to introduce new 2018 iPad Pro models, new Macs, and more. Much of this has been confirmed by evidence within the iOS 12.1 beta, which includes references to an iPad2018Fall device.

Today, sources familiar with the development of the new 2018 iPad Pro have offered additional details about the device, its features, and more.

The model codes for the Wi-Fi models of the 2018 iPad Pro will be iPad8,1, iPad8,2, iPad8,5 and iPad8,6. Meanwhile, the cellular-capable models will be iPad8,3, iPad8,4 and iPad8,7 and iPad8,8.

This means there will be two Wi-Fi models in both size options, and two LTE models in both size options.

2018 IPAD PRO DISPLAY
The new iPad Pros will have an edge-to-edge display and will not feature a Home button, much like the iPhone. Unlike the iPhone, however, the iPad Pro will not have a notch.

Even though the new 2018 iPad Pro models will sport thinner bezels, those bezels will still be wide enough to accommodate the TrueDepth camera system necessary for Face ID.

FACE ID IN LANDSCAPE
The 2018 iPad Pro will include Face ID with the same image signal processor as the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR. Further, we can confirm that Face ID on the new iPad Pro will work in both portrait and landscape orientations, though it won’t work upside down.

The Face ID setup process on the new iPad Pros will be very similar to the process introduced with the iPhone X. Notably, despite post-setup support for landscape Face ID, the setup process must be completed in portrait orientation.

It’s not clear if the new landscape support requires a special hardware feature, or if it can be made available to iPhones with a simple software update.

EXTERNAL DISPLAYS
With its USB-C port, the 2018 iPad Pro will be able to output 4K HDR video to external displays. To accommodate this feature, there will be a new panel in the settings app where users will be able to control resolution, HDR, brightness and other settings for connected external displays.

NEW APPLE PENCIL
A new version of the Apple Pencil will be released for the 2018 iPad Pro, sources tell us. The new Apple Pencil will be paired with iPad Pro by proximity, much like AirPods or HomePod. Switching between devices will be possible without connecting the Apple Pencil to the charging port. It’s unclear whether the current model of Apple Pencil will work with the new iPad.

MAGNETIC CONNECTOR
The new iPad Pro will have a brand new connector for accessories. The Magnetic Connector will be at the back of the iPad and will allow for the connection of different accessories, such as a new version of the Smart Keyboard and other third-party accessories.

With recent discoveries essentially confirming a new iPad announcement for later this month, even more details about the tablets are leaking.



Today, new details surrounding the device’s model numbers have leaked. As reported by MySmartPrice, four new model numbers were discovered from a recent MIIT certification, hinting at iPad Pros and Apple Pencil updates.

The report cautions that some of these model numbers may be for other iPad models Apple plans on releasing this fall, not just the iPad Pros. Receiving certification on September 29, 2018, the model numbers are A1876, A1980, and A1993.

Additionally, the firm spotted a Bluetooth device with model number A2051, which could be hinting at a possible Apple Pencil update.

While it’s all speculation here, Apple typically has two separate model numbers for Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + LTE models of the iPad. At an event expected for later this month, we’re expecting new iPad Pro models featuring a near bezel-less design, Face ID, and USB-C, along with an updated Mac lineup including a new Mac mini.