iPad (non-Pro) 2019: Why Lightning and non USB-C?

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javacowboyjavacowboy
Posted:
in iPod + iTunes + AppleTV
I'm not trolling.  I'm asking an honest question.

First of all, I understand Apple's reluctance to move any of its iPhones to USB-C.  And while I disagree, I think such a move would be highly disruptive and I certainly understand the arguments against it.

However, I simply can't understand why Apple can't make this move with the regular iPad line.

1. Apple is promoting the iPad as a desktop/laptop replacement.  Without access to a universe of USB-C peripherals (USB sticks, backup drives, external cameras, etc), this transition becomes much more difficult.
2. The Surface, XPS 2-1, and other 2-1 tablets support USB-C.  Many Apple supporters will argue that these tablets are inferior, but they are nonetheless competing with Apple for tablet dollars.
3. Apple risks the appearance (and I don't believe Apple would do this deliberately) that they are using the lack of USB-C as a sleazy gimmick to upsell Apple uses to an iPad Pro.
4. I don't see this being as disruptive for iPad users as it would be for iPhone users.  IMHO, most iPad users are less likely to sync with their Macs and are more likely to just use the cable for charging.  In this case, they'd just use the supplied USB-C cable and charger.

Comments

  • Reply 1 of 3
    hmurchisonhmurchison Posts: 12,445member
    Rene Ritchie probably explains it best


     

    javacowboy
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  • Reply 2 of 3
    javacowboyjavacowboy Posts: 864member
    This is a truly excellent video jam-packed with detail and it was well worth my time watching.  The presentation is also pleasant, as Ritchie goes over the whole lightning vs. USB-C landscape without coming across as pedantic or conceded.

    However, it doesn't answer my question of why no USB-C on the lower-end iPad.
    edited October 2019
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  • Reply 3 of 3
    hmurchisonhmurchison Posts: 12,445member
    javacowboy said:


    However, it doesn't answer my question of why no USB-C on the lower-end iPad.
    That's true,  I wonder if it's a parts supply thing i.e Apple just has an abundance of parts in stock that make sticking with lightning the more feasible 
    proposition at lower price points 
    javacowboy
     1Like 0Dislikes 0Informatives
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