Apple AV adapter “not optimized” for use with iPad 3, some magnetic sensor elements may have changed with new tablet

The new iPad is out.

Now it’s time for the devices, the accessories and peripherals (first party or otherwise) to catch up to it.

Per MacOtakara, attempting to use an old Apple Digital AV Adapter with the new iPad results in an alert that it is “not optimized” for the device, though the accessory still works once the alert is dismissed. Apple also appears to have slightly modified the Smart Cover-compatible magnets on the right side of the iPad, possibly affecting some third-party covers.

The blog reported on Friday that the older version of the Apple Digital AV Adapter, part number MC953ZM/A, displays a “This accessory is not optimized for this iPad” alert when connected to the just-released third-generation iPad.

Apple is selling a new version of the adapter, part number MD098ZM/A, that is compatible with the new iPad. It’s not immediately clear, however, what changes will be made.

Report author Danbo wrote that tapping “Dismiss” would allow the older adapter to be used, but users will see the alert each time they connect the part.

Apple released the original US$39 Digital AV Adapter alongside the iPad 2 last year, adding HDMI output to for the iPhone 4, fourth-generation iPod touch and the iPad and iPad 2. The accessory features an HDMI port and a Dock passthrough.

MacOtakara also reported that Apple has made changes to the magnetic sensor that interacts with the Smart Cover to put the new iPad to sleep, though Apple’s own Smart Covers still work with the device.

“However, since the position or sensitivity of magnetic sensor was changed, 3rd party’s cover which has magnetic sleeping feature may not work perfectly,” the report read.

Danbo pointed out that Apple has yet to outline the changes in its “Dimensional Drawings” resource on its developer website, so case makers will have to do their own research to identify the exact nature of the changes.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.