The Apple iPad (2021) debuted in 2021 alongside the iPad mini. While the second mentioned model brought a completely new design similar to iPhones and, following the example of more expensive Apple tablets, also a more universal USB-C interface, the standard iPad was faithful to the original design and lightning connector.
This model with a 10.2-inch screen certainly did not charm with its appearance. It had wider bezels, a rounder design, and even a fingerprint reader under the display. It looked basically exactly the same as the previous generation. It only boasted a more powerful Apple A13 Bionic chip, as well as a new ultra-wide-angle camera with centering.
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Introducing iPad mini (2021)Video: manufacturer’s archive
It is no longer possible to buy the ninth generation iPad in the official Apple store. However, the situation is different, according to shopping advisor Zboží.cz, with domestic sellers who are still selling off their stock. So if for any reason you want a model with a lightning connector, now is the time to buy. After stocks are sold out, only more modern tablets with a USB-C interface will be available.
The Apple iPad (2021) is available in domestic stores from CZK 8,290. We are talking about the basic model with 64GB memory and wifi connectivity. Of course, there are also versions with a larger memory on sale, which cost a few hundred crowns to a thousand drachmas. However, potential applicants must take into account that the ninth generation iPad only offers 4G connectivity, not a faster 5G connection.
iPhones are next
The USB-C connector was also used by Apple in the latest iPhones with the number 15 in the name. However, older models that have a lightning connector – iPhone 14, iPhone 13 and iPhone SE – still remain in official distribution.
However, it is already clear that the new generations of Apple smartphones will also have a USB-C interface. They will gradually push older models out of the market, until finally the lightning interface disappears for good. And that will be the definitive end of an era.
Due to pressure from the European Union (EU), electronics manufacturers will be forced to use a single charger, the connectors will be unified to USB type C. For most devices, the regulation will be valid from December 2024, for laptops from April 2026.
Photo: Profimedia.cz
From the bottom: USB-A connectors, lightning interface, microUSB and USB-C
At the same time, the new rules should not only apply to smartphones and tablets, but also to other portable devices – for example, electronic readers, cameras, speakers or wireless headphones. These devices are not always equipped with USB-C connectors, the older and slower microUSB standard is far more common. This is because it is cheaper for the manufacturer.
The European Commission has been dealing with a unified charger for several years, after negotiations with manufacturers of mobile phones and other electronics, it managed to reduce the market from several dozen terminals to only three over the years. These are lightning (Apple), microUSB and USB-C interfaces. In the case of laptops, however, a number of manufacturers use their own power connector solutions.
A unified charger for mobile phones will become a reality in 2024. Laptops will follow
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