iOS 17.4 beta hints at new Apple iPad with Face ID camera in landscape format

The iOS 17.4 beta contains hints of a new iPad with a Face ID camera in landscape format - the upcoming Apple iPad Air 12.9?

January 27, 2024 3 0

Apple released the beta version of iOS 17.4 on Thursday, which introduces sideloading of apps and many other changes related to EU antitrust legislation. There are also the next indications of an unreleased Apple iPad with a Face ID camera in landscape format.

Hints of a new Apple iPad with landscape front camera found in iOS 17.4 beta

Code discovered in internal iOS 17.4 beta files suggests that Apple is working on a new iPad model with a TrueDepth camera for Face ID. This camera is positioned at the top when the iPad is in landscape mode. Currently, every iPad Pro model with Face ID has the camera positioned on the side when the iPad is in landscape mode. This regularly leads to a strange angle during video conferences. Especially when using the Apple Magic Keyboard, however, you can hardly avoid it.

Apple iPad Pro 11 12.9 2022 — Apple iPad Pro 11 2022

Even the initial iOS setup has been rewritten for the new iPad. “Face ID needs to be in landscape to learn how to recognize you” says a new system string. “During Face ID setup, iPad needs to be in landscape with the camera at the top of the screen. Once setup is complete, Face ID works in portrait and landscape,” another message reads.

The 10th generation Apple iPad is currently the only model that has a front camera in landscape orientation. However, this iPad works with Touch ID instead of Face ID. Apple is most likely planning to introduce a new, redesigned iPad Pro soon, as many rumors suggest.

Rumors about the next-generation iPad Pro

According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is also working on new accessories for the next generation iPad Pro, which suggests that the iPad itself could get a new design. There are also rumors that Apple is introducing MagSafe technology for the iPad Pro. Other rumors include OLED displays and more storage options.

Gurman previously said that Apple is expected to announce new iPads in March. At that time, iOS 17.4 will already be available for download, according to the company. Read more on the topic here: