Buyers of the new 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro will not be able to use the previous model's Magic Keyboard.
Credit: Andrew O'Hara, AppleInsider
As noted by AppleInsider after the new iPad Pro launch, Apple has been listing the Magic Keyboard as "new," prompting speculation about revisions to the design. It's now been revealed that there is a change, and it is to do with accommodating the new iPad Pro's 0.5mm thicker chassis.
According to French site iGeneration, and as spotted by 9to5 Mac, the thicker casing means that the older model cannot be closed precisely.
"The problem is that once closed, the Magic Keyboard tightens the tablet fairly closely," says iGeneration, in translation. "Apple did not leave a millimetre of flexibility, because the accessory must hold the iPad in place.."
"But with this half-millimetre more on the 2021 generation," continues the site, "perhaps this very precise adjustment is problematic and the device had to be reviewed."
The French site claims to have seen confirmation of these details via Apple Store documentation. Official sources within Apple support have now confirmed to AppleInsider that the information is correct.
Apple's Magic Keyboard for the 11-inch iPad Pro is unaffected because that model received no chassis alternations.
Updated: 08:25 ET with confirmation from Apple.
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