Even as Apple has released a new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, the company has also revealed that is has been researching a more Microsoft Surface-like traditional keyboard arrangement.
The new iPad Air Magic Keyboard with larger trackpad plus function keys — image credit: Apple
It feels as if we’ve always had the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro and the iPad Air, but it was only launched in 2020. Well after it was released, though, Apple was continuing to research this Surface-like alternative.
“Hinged keyboard accessory having multiple installation modes for a tablet computing device,” is a newly-revealed patent application, which follows on from a previous version applied for in July 2020. Despite being filed well after the Magic Keyboard would have been in development, though, this patent references over 40 other filings, dating back to 1993.