Photos of an alleged mockup of a next-generation iPad Air have surfaced in Vietnam. The mockup indicated a slightly redesigned iPad, with a thinner profile, recessed volume buttons, a Touch ID sensor, and a puzzling lack of a mute/orientation lock switch.
The supposed dummy unit matches up nearly identically with previous “leaks.” Vietnamese blogTinhte.vn says that the device comes in at just 7 millimeters thick, the same thickness as the iPhone 6.
Interestingly enough, the unit sports a hole where the mute/orientation lock switch usually resides. The hole could be where Apple intends to locate the microphone opening, or it is simply an unfinished model, and the hole would act as the pilot hole for further machining for a larger opening.
While the dummy unit has recessed volume adjustment buttons, ala the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, the camera lens doesn’t protrude as it does on those devices.
While not much is known about the second-generation iPad Air, rumors indicate the device will sport a Touch ID sensor, an A8 processor, and possibly even NFC for use with Apple Pay.
As usual, this is all to be taken with a dash of your favorite low-sodium seasoning, but everything should be much clearer come October 16.
