Leaked iPad Air 3 casing images hint at Smart Connector, new camera layout, additional speakers

It’s the leaks that keep things interesting.

Asian Mac site Macotakara recently found an image of what could be the iPad Air 3 casing. The leaked case design suggests some of the potential new design changes that the iPad Air 3 could feature when it launches to the public.

The leaked image shows what appears to be a cutout for the Smart Connector. Apple first introduced this connection with the iPad Pro, using it for a more stable and reliable connection for things like keyboards. This case leak suggests that Apple plans to add the Smart Connector to the iPad Air lineup with the March revision.

Other changes include a camera cutout on the back of the case appears to extend further down, perhaps hinting that the iPad Air 3 will gain support for rear camera flash, a feature the iPad Pro does not have. Finally, the leaked images appear to show holes for four speakers, a change that was first reported earlier this month.

It’s been cited by industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo as of last month that the iPad Air 3 would not feature support for 3D Touch due to a production error.

The iPad Air 3 should launch in March alongside the iPhone 5se and new Apple Watch variants.

Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.

Via 9to5Mac and Macotakara