Smart Keyboard Folio: Lightweight iPad Pro keyboard sold out at Apple
If you don't need a Magic Keyboard with trackpad, you could use an alternative with two 11-inch iPads. Apple has now removed this. Retailers can help.
The Smart Keyboard Folio from Apple is compatible with the iPad Air 11 and iPad Pro 11 until 2022.
(Image: Apple)
Anyone looking for a keyboard for an older iPad Pro such as the M2 model or a new 11-inch iPad Air M2 previously had at least two options: In addition to the Magic Keyboard including trackpad, Apple always offered a so-called Smart Keyboard Folio without trackpad. Depending on the application, the latter had several advantages: it was significantly cheaper and also lighter.
However, for reasons that remain unclear, Apple has now removed the Smart Keyboard Folio from its range. The order page now only states that the accessory is "sold out". This also applies to the 12.9-inch version, which was compatible with the iPad Pro 12.9 up to the M2. This is how you can still get the keyboard.
Why the Smart Keyboard Folio can be worthwhile
There are three differences between the Magic Keyboard and Smart Keyboard Folio. The 11-inch version of the Magic Keyboard costs 349 euros at Apple, while the 13-inch version costs 399 euros. The Smart Keyboard Folio without trackpad is available for 199 and 229 euros (11 and 12.9 inches).
There is also a lot to be saved in terms of weight: The 11-inch version weighs just 297 grams, while the Magic Keyboard surprisingly weighs twice as much (601 grams). Thirdly, the suspension of the Smart Keyboard Folio is different to that of the Magic Keyboard. Depending on use, this can be more comfortable in terms of the adjustment options. In addition, there is the smaller footprint due to the omitted trackpad - but this may have to be replaced by a mouse or an external trackpad.
No longer with Apple, but in stores
It is not yet clear whether Apple has really buried the Smart Keyboard Folio or whether the "sold out" status will change soon. The 11-inch version of the device is currently compatible with iPad Pro models from generations 1 to 4 (including M2) as well as the current iPad Air M2 and iPad Air 4 and 5. The 13-inch model supports iPad Pro generations 3 to 6 (including M2) and the current iPad Air M2 with 13 inches.
A look at the heise price comparison shows that both the 11-Zoll-Variante and the 12.9-inch version are still on sale. The prices are always slightly lower than those listed by Apple.
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