After the launch of the iPad Pro, Apple unveiled its new Smart Connector technology to allow accessory makers to more seamlessly integrate with the device. This comes after the first iPad Pro’s release. The Smart Connector has not necessarily gained a whole lot of traction. A new report from Fast Company this week offers some insight into Apple’s efforts to have accessory makers adopt the Smart Connectors.
When asked as to why accessory makers have not adopted the Smart Connector — they have cited wait times and high prices for Smart Connectors components. Some touted Bluetooth as a more viable alternative. Incipio stated that with Logitech’s Smart Connector keyboard already on market, it’s waiting to create something with a differentiating feature.
“With an iPad Pro keyboard on the market already, we are evaluating the market’s appetite for another iPad Pro keyboard and identifying if there are any gaps that we can fill,” said Kelly McElroy, a spokeswoman for Incipio. “So we are developing with having a point of difference in mind rather than developing to be quick to market.”
Another anonymous case company executive cited long wait times that interfere with product development cycle: “For a business like us, we’ve got a very rapid product development cycle,” this source said. “When you’ve got a long lead time component that’s close to six months, that’s just not tenable,” stated the source.
Apple has stated that there are “multiple companies” now developing Smart Connector accessories. As for when their accessories will enter the market, however, remains to be seen.
