Does the ipad Pro (2nd gen 2017) fit 1st gen cases?

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mli2017 Author

Level 1

9 points

Does the ipad Pro (2nd gen 2017) fit 1st gen cases?

I'm trying to find out if the new iPad Pro 12.9 (second gen, 2017) is compatible with the various cases available for the first gen model. I got two different answers: I called Apple support and the woman said the new model is the same as the first one, nothing is physically different on the outside - so old cases should fit. But then I read things like this on some case manufacturers sites:

Will the current BookBook for 12.9-inch iPad Pro work for the newest 12.9" iPad Pro, announced by Apple on 05 June 2017?

No. The 2017 12.9-inch iPad Pro is exactly the same size as the previous version, but Apple moved the microphone, flash, and ambient light sensors in the new iPad Pro. This means that although our current BookBook will fit, the new 12.9-inch iPad Pro will not function properly. We will be making the necessary modifications to accommodate these changes, and will have these ready soon.

So can someone clear this up for me? Which answer is correct? Thanks!

iPad Pro Wi-Fi, iOS 10.3.2

Posted on Jun 8, 2017 9:49 PM

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Answer 1

mli2017 Author

Level 1

9 points

Jun 8, 2017 11:35 PM in response to sberman

Thanks for the link and sleuthing! It's odd though....that link shows the case as compatible with the new and old 12.9s...but the Otterbox website I was just on has a separate page for their cases that work with the 2nd gen 12.9. If you have a 1st gen, there are two cases styles available. If you have a 2nd gen, only one case style is available. I suppose the answer may be that SOME of the hardware is different on the 2nd gen, but not all of it - so depending on a specific case's cutouts, this make make it incompatible or not. I wish Apple had a clear answer to this question on their FAQ. However, if I'm patient ⚠ I'll bet there will a ton of info about it once the 2nd gen is released to the gen. public next week!

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Answer 2

west117

Level 1

14 points

Jun 9, 2017 6:15 PM in response to mli2017

Good Morning,

I am the head of marketing for Twelve South and I can confirm that our current 12.9" BookBook will NOT work with the brand new iPad that was launched on Monday. Unfortunately, because of the new flash on the back and the new mic placement the cut outs in our internal sleeve are not placed properly. We have ordered the new iPads and will be working tirelessly to get new BookBook's out for the new models but it will take a bit to ensure all the measurements are perfect.

Thanks for reaching out and if you have any additional questions feel free to reach out to us directly.

Have a great day!

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Answer 3

sberman

Level 10

272,198 points

Jun 8, 2017 10:39 PM in response to mli2017

OK, perhaps I jumped the gun a bit ...

I am getting a 10½" iPad Pro, but your question is about the 12.9" iPad Pro.

The Apple Store offers this case for the 12.9" iPad Pro (in the U.S.):

Logitech Slim Combo with detachable keyboard for 12.9-inch iPad Pro - Black - Apple

Significantly, under "Compatibility", it lists both the first and second generation 12.9" iPad Pro!

So at least using the cutouts, etc. shown on this particular case, you would be just fine!

(I have no financial interest in Logitech. I just happened to find their case on Apple's website.)

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Answer 4

sberman

Level 10

272,198 points

Jun 8, 2017 10:18 PM in response to mli2017

You ask about compatibility with "various cases" (your words). Therefore, it's not possible to discern from your post what you expect a "case" to do. Is it simply a wrap for the iPad, like a sleeve? If so, the locations of microphones, flash, etc. won't matter. They moved, but you wouldn't care since you remove the sleeve when using the iPad.

I ordered a 2017 10½" iPad Pro. I also ordered a Smart Cover. The Smart Cover is definitely unique for this particular iPad Pro model. I hope you understand why.

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Answer 5

mli2017 Author

Level 1

9 points

Jun 8, 2017 10:24 PM in response to sberman

Thanks Sberman. Also thanks for pointing out my question wasn't specific enough. Yes, I would like to get a case for the iPad that will protect it from falls, prop it up for either drawing or viewing, and would like it to be something that could always stay on the iPad - so in that regard, the locations of the cutouts for speakers, microphone, etc. would matter. Am I to understand then, based on your reply, that those HAVE moved to new locations on the 2nd gen model? I find it odd that an Apple support person gave me the wrong answer. But your answer syncs up with the FAQ on the Bookbook product site. I guess I better wait until I have my actual iPad delivered to me, and then buy a case in person somewhere rather than online, to ensure it's the right fit.

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Answer 6

mli2017 Author

Level 1

9 points

Jun 9, 2017 11:00 AM in response to west117

That answers it! So there is a physical difference between gen 1 and 2: the placement of microphone and flash. Thanks to sberman and west117 for their help, and I will be waiting until 2nd gen cases become available.

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Answer 7

sberman

Level 10

272,198 points

Jun 9, 2017 12:45 PM in response to mli2017

Glad you got an answer.

There are some (at least one) cases available now ... but clearly different manufacturers have them ready at different times.

Enjoy your new iPad!

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Answer 8

Jun 14, 2017 9:22 AM in response to mli2017

The new 12.9 inch has the camera bump on the back,

The apple keyboard/case that I use works 100% with 1st gen and 2nd gen

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