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Apple announces Smart Keyboard for new 9.7-inch iPad Pro, new Lightning accessories

In addition to announcing the 9.7-inch iPad Pro, Apple today has also revealed new accessories for the device. As we expected, the company announced a new smaller version of the Smart Keyboard accessory for the device, as well. Apple of course originally introduced the Smart Keyboard with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro last November.

In terms of design, the smaller Smart Keyboard looks almost the same as its larger sibling, just with a few minor tweaks to improve the experience with a smaller form factor. The keyboard connects via the Smart Connector on the side of the iPad Pro and charges via that three-port connector. The keys are made of the same fabric material as the larger Smart Keyboard model.

Furthermore, Apple has announced a pair of new Lightning adapters, as well. There’s a new USB Camera Adapter that allows users to connect things like microphones and supports USB 3.0 and is available for $39. There’s also a new Lightning SD Card Reader adapter, as well, which runs $29.

The Smart Keyboard will be available in charcoal gray for $149, while the Polyurethane iPad Pro Smart Cover and Silicone Cases will be available available for $49 and $69, respectively. Furthermore, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro supports the same Apple Pencil as the 12.9-inch model, so Apple has not announced a new model of it at its event today.

You can read all of the latest info from Apple’s ‘Let us loop you in’ event in our live blog/news hub.

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Comments

  1. surfingarbo - 8 years ago

    Wondering if the standard $50 Smart Case for the 2013 iPad Air will work with the new 9.7″ iPad Pro. Hopefully!

  2. Kevin Labranche - 8 years ago

    No real new design here, but good patchwork. The only issue that might arise in my opinion is one that keeps coming up with Apple products. I just went to look at the prices and Smart Keyboard is still way to expensive. It is suppose to be an accessorie not another iOS devices.

    • taoprophet420 - 8 years ago

      $149 is way to much for the keyboard.

      Microsoft at least includes the pen with the Surface Pro 4. Apple should at least include the Pencil with the iPad Pros.

      • Kevin Labranche - 8 years ago

        The Pencil if included could indeed make it viable option, but I do think the best would be to either choose the keyboard or the Pencil at checkout.

  3. Matthew Jay - 8 years ago

    Lack of USB 3 support. HUGE disappointment.

Author

Avatar for Chance Miller Chance Miller

Chance is an editor for the entire 9to5 network and covers the latest Apple news for 9to5Mac.

Tips, questions, typos to chance@9to5mac.com