Apple may still have a few surprises in store for its Sept. 9 event, including a "revamped iPad keyboard" and a less expensive gold variant of the current Apple Watch design, according to The New York Times.
Citing people briefed with Apple's plans for next week's event, the Times reported on Friday that new metal finishes for the Apple Watch "may surface" at Wednesday's event. That aligns with what KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said back in March, when he indicated Apple could launch as many as three additional casing materials in time for this fall's holiday shopping season.
Popular jewelry materials not found in the current Apple Watch lineup include white gold, platinum, titanium and ceramic.
Friday's report indicated that one of the options Apple may introduce is a less expensive gold version. Apple's current 18-karat gold Apple Watch starts at $10,000.
Other materials that Apple could introduce include white gold, titanium, or even ceramic. Less common materials include carbon fiber, rubber, or custom creations like Rolex's "Rolesor" and Hublot's "Magic Gold."
Friday's report also suggested Apple will showcase new iPads at the Sept. 9 event, which would be something of a surprise, given that Apple has opted to hold off on new iPad launches until October in years past.
The Times said its sources indicated Apple is "putting the finishing touches" on a revamped iPad keyboard that "may" launch this year. It is unknown whether that product would be the wireless keyboard with integrated battery outed by the FCC, along with a new Magic Mouse, last month, or if it is an entirely different product. Apple does not currently make an iPad-specific keyboard.
The report made no mention of a so-called "iPad Pro," which is rumored to be set to launch this fall with a larger 12.9-inch display and a Bluetooth stylus accessory.