Possible Photo of Third-Generation iPad Revamped with Lightning Connector

[Akshay Masand]

A recently released image claims to show a slightly modified third-generation iPad with a Lightning connector port, possibly pointing towards an imminent release of a refreshed iteration of the iOS device. The photo was posted to Apple.pro and shows a full-size iPad back case with a small dock hole seemingly meant to support Apple’s propriety Lightning connector. One thing to note is that the authenticity of the image cannot be confirmed and is therefore provided for purposes of discussion only.

The new shell is supposedly shown resting atop the current iPad with 30-pin dock connector, showing the differences between the two cutouts. Furthermore, there is a Lightning flex cable on top of the case, which appears to indicate that it perfectly lines up with the slot. As of right now, it isn't clear if the component will be used in the revamped iPad but it does seem likely.

As time goes on, Apple is expected to bring Lightning connectivity to all of its iOS products as they are refreshed. This will offer compatibility to the upcoming accessories for all iOS devices. The proprietary standard is seen as a long-term investment for the company and is expected to have a lifetime of ten years, which mirrors that of the 30-pin dock connector. As of right now, it isn't certain whether Apple will release the slightly modified iPad but it may take the opportunity to do so at the upcoming event, where the company is expected to unveil the 7.85 “iPad mini.”

Source: Apple.pro

[femibrim]

Sooooooo hopefully I can switch out my iPad 3 for the newer one....

[*T*]

I don't see how people are goin to trust holding their iPad up by that tiny connector

[Silverado1987]

I don't see how people are goin to trust holding their iPad up by that tiny connector

It's a lot sturdier than you think. Plus when docks come out like they all have they have supports for certain devices

[bigboyz]

iPad 2 and iPad 3 owners get ready to sell..haha! Guess we're getting an updated iPad 3 after all. Makes sense as they already have the new iTouch, iPhone..why not the iPad too?

[KraXik]

iPad 2 and iPad 3 owners get ready to sell..haha! Guess we're getting an updated iPad 3 after all. Makes sense as they already have the new iTouch, iPhone..why not the iPad too?

At the moment I believe an old dock iPad 3 will be more valuable than a new dock.

At this moment in time it just has more support.

[redstar299]

I really doubt Apple is going completely change production midstream for the simple benefit of having the lightning connector .. When the Third Generation iPad is designed to have it and they will still be producing 30-pin connectors for quite some time.- makes zero sense to change production and launch a refreshed version of a product

[Scotty Manley Silberhorn]

I really doubt Apple is going completely change production midstream for the simple benefit of having the lightning connector .. When the Third Generation iPad is designed to have it and they will still be producing 30-pin connectors for quite some time.- makes zero sense to change production and launch a refreshed version of a product

You're right they should've kept the MacBooks with the same processor and specs. No! This would be a good idea to launch a new product. The iPad doesn't really have any externals to improve on anymore: screen, camera, etc. Make the change to the connector and add the better a6 processor.

Personally, I think apple should call the new iPad mini, the iPad air. Stay consistent with other lineups.

I know some people will disagree but the iPad isn't like the iPhone, it doesn't need anymore external features. The iPhone which is more mobile will need to keep up with other technologies. Maybe revamp the iPad every couple of years, but every year is ridiculous.

[Colin9001]

600 bucks for a lightening slot.. Lolno

[KraXik]

600 bucks for a lightening slot.. Lolno

The rest of the iPad comes with it...

[trialnterror]

Nice photoshop job

[spazturtle]

Nice photoshop job

Thats what cases look it before thy are finished.

[Shigoroku]

If I was a new iPad 3 owner, I'd be pretty upset about this. It will cause lots of confusion regarding accessories and compatibility.

If I was a new iPad owner, I'd be pretty upset about this. It will cause a lot of confusion with accessory compatibility.

My comments aren't showing. I see only one comment, even though it says at the top there are 12.

[coolemt]

Why would you want this. Lightening adapter and A6 processor? Big whoop

[chad2ss]

Wow look at the apple logo. That's so fake Stevie Wonder could see it. Stupid. There's no updated iPad and the next one NEXT SPRING will have a lightning connector.

[fleurya]

600 bucks for a lightening slot.. Lolno

I fail to see anywhere where anyone said you should buy a new iPad just to get a different connector.

Be gone, troll!!

[titoget]

I'm sure lightning connector is not just for 10 years, its here to stay. It's already smaller than the small USB charger.

[shant1010]

you can see that they photoshoped the apple logo... its a fake

[iDeadman]

The rest of the iPad comes with it...

^this

[Scotty Manley Silberhorn]

Why would you want this. Lightening adapter and A6 processor? Big whoop

I would take the a6. My iPhone 5 is noticeably faster than my iPad 3.