The Next iPad: USB-C connectivity or Lightning?

Fariha Khan
January 23, 2017
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In 2017, Apple is likely to revamp its iPad lineup with new screen sizes, software capabilities and possibly a new Apple Pencil. But what type of USB-C connectivity the new iPads will make use of…?

As Apple put such as focus on the power of USB-C with the 12-inch MacBook as well as the MacBook Pro, there’s been rumor if the iPad (and iPhone) will ever adopt the standard.

Previously we got to consider the likelihood of Apple switching to USB-C for its iOS devices, and a third of respondents expressed that it will make the move in 2018. As for the iPad, adopt USB-C makes sense considering the company still promotes the device as a PC replacement.

Switching to USB-C on the iPad would open the device up to a number of accessories, making it a more capable device and support Apple’s stance that it’s a substitute for PC.

Generally, USB-C is more powerful compared to Lightning. In 2016, Apple launched a Lightning to USB-C cable for iPad Pro users. When combined with the included 29W power block, 12.9-inch iPad Pro users can take benefit from that power to charge their device much faster. In the first place, the USB-C to Lightning cable is something Apple should have included with the iPad Pro. For the iPad Pro, particularly, a switch to USB-C would keep Apple’s branding and I/O regular. Bringing USB-C to the iPad Pro implies that Apple’s 2 Pro’ products would be completely adopting USB-C.

But switching to USB-C with only the iPad would create some disintegration between iOS devices. The iPhone would still be make use of Lightning but the iPad would have USB-C. Apple has continuously promoted the iPad as being just as powerful as a PC. It means that switching to USB-C would make the device the same as the MacBook Pro.

The ultimate objective should be USB-C across the board for Apple’s devices. However, having the iPad have it first would make the transition simpler for iPhone users.