Report: New iPad Pro Keyboard Features Built-In Trackpad

Apple is developing an iPad keyboard accessory that features a built-in trackpad, according to The Information.

Built for the next iPad Pro, the keyboard will reportedly aim to attract consumers who need full productivity out of Apple's premium tablet.

It'll offer a laptop-like experience while allowing the iPad Pro to continue serving as a portable all-in-one machine.

Users can still detach the keyboard for standard web browsing and gaming; however, a keyboard with a trackpad enhances apps such as Microsoft Word.

iPadOS earned mouse support last year, but it exists as an AssistiveTouch setting hidden within Apple's operating system.

If the Cupertino-based company adds a trackpad to its keyboard, the availability of an on-screen cursor might find itself much more visible to users.

Apple wouldn't hide it behind several menus.

"If you like what you've seen us do with iPadOS, stay tuned," during the annual shareholder meeting.

"We're going to keep working on it."

Apple needs to maintain a defined line between the iPad and the Mac lines, though.

Traditional laptops remain an important part of the business, and introducing a keyboard accessory featuring a trackpad might hurt Mac sales as consumers transition to the iPad Pro.

It's still a sale, but Apple wants to drive both lines as complementary to each other.

Both the new iPad Pro and its upgraded keyboard accessory should debut in the first half of 2020.

Rumors suggest an announcement will come in mid-to-late March, but the coronavirus outbreak could cause Foxconn and other manufacturers to close their factories for an extended period delaying Apple's plans.

Apple could turn to Worldwide Developers Conference in June; however, the multi-day event might get canceled due to the disease.

Now, everything remains up in the air in terms of a timeline.

Apple is developing an iPad keyboard accessory that features a built-in trackpad, according to The Information.

Built for the next iPad Pro, the keyboard will reportedly aim to attract consumers who need full productivity out of Apple's premium tablet.

It'll offer a laptop-like experience while allowing the iPad Pro to continue serving as a portable all-in-one machine.

Users can still detach the keyboard for standard web browsing and gaming; however, a keyboard with a trackpad enhances apps such as Microsoft Word.

iPadOS earned mouse support last year, but it exists as an AssistiveTouch setting hidden within Apple's operating system.

If the Cupertino-based company adds a trackpad to its keyboard, the availability of an on-screen cursor might find itself much more visible to users.

Apple wouldn't hide it behind several menus.

"If you like what you've seen us do with iPadOS, stay tuned," during the annual shareholder meeting.

"We're going to keep working on it."

Apple needs to maintain a defined line between the iPad and the Mac lines, though.

Traditional laptops remain an important part of the business, and introducing a keyboard accessory featuring a trackpad might hurt Mac sales as consumers transition to the iPad Pro.

It's still a sale, but Apple wants to drive both lines as complementary to each other.

Both the new iPad Pro and its upgraded keyboard accessory should debut in the first half of 2020.

Rumors suggest an announcement will come in mid-to-late March, but the coronavirus outbreak could cause Foxconn and other manufacturers to close their factories for an extended period delaying Apple's plans.

Apple could turn to Worldwide Developers Conference in June; however, the multi-day event might get canceled due to the disease.

Now, everything remains up in the air in terms of a timeline.