Apple iPad Pro With Triple-Lens Camera Reportedly In The Works

Apple is reportedly working on a new iPad Pro model that features a triple-camera setup.

Japanese blog Mac Otakara, citing sources in Apple’s supply chain in China, said the Cupertino tech giant is working on a next-gen iPad Pro model that features three rear cameras. The site also reveals that a 10.2-inch entry-level iPad is on its way to the market. This one, however, sports only two rear cameras. Both models, the sources said, may be launched in October.

Level up

This rumor, if proven true, will mean that Apple is finally giving its tablets the same kind of treatment it gave to its iPhones -- camera-wise, at least. The Cupertino tech giant has been using dual-camera setups in its iPhones for years now, but its iPads continue to have only one rear camera.

Apple started using dual cameras (composed of a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens) in 2016, starting with the iPhone 7 Plus. This feature continued with 2017’s iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X, as well as 2018’s iPhone XS and XS Max. The iPad line, despite refreshes, didn’t have that feature, Apple Insider noted.

The current iPad Pro, which doesn’t have a dual-camera setup, was released in October last year. This model was a refresh of the earlier version, and was updated to feature Face ID. As it has been almost a year since release, fans are already waiting for a refreshed version. The 9.7-inch iPad needs a refresh as well. The latest model was released in March last year.

This year’s iPads, despite being new, still do not have a dual-camera setup unlike last year’s iPhone XS and XS Max. These iPads, which includes the revamped iPad mini and the new 10.5-inch iPad Air, only feature single cameras.

Floating around

Mac Otakara’s source said diagrams pertaining to accessories for use on the upcoming iPad models are “floating around.” These accessories are allegedly meant to be used on the upcoming triple- and dual-camera iPads. It’s unknown whether these diagrams belong to Apple or not.

AppleInsider said it “was unable to confirm the veracity” of the Japanese site’s claims. It’s worth noting, though, that Mac Otakara has a “decent” track record when it comes to Apple’s new devices.

The reports didn’t give a release date, but a previous report said Apple will start producing new iPads in July this year. Stay tuned for more details as they come.