
What the three dots on your Apple's iPad mean and how to control iPad with your iPhone
Zee News
Apples iPad 3 Dots On Back: The iPad Pro was the first model in Apples lineup to feature this connector, along with the Smart Keyboard.
Apple's iPad 3 Dots On Back: If you’ve recently picked up Apple’s new iPad, you might have noticed three tiny dots placed neatly on the back or along the side of the device. At first glance, they may look like part of the design or even small vents, leaving many users curious about their purpose. Interestingly, almost every modern iPad model features them, except the iPad mini.
Apple did not add these dots randomly. They serve a specific and practical purpose, enhancing how the device works with other tools. While they may seem small and easy to overlook, these three dots play an important role in expanding what your iPad can do. In this article, we will explain why these tiny dots are placed neatly on the back or along the side of Apple’s iPad.
Apple designed the iPad to work instantly with keyboard accessories as soon as they are attached. The three small pins transfer both power and data, so there is no need for separate charging or pairing. These three dots are officially called the Smart Connector, which Apple introduced in 2015 alongside the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
The iPad Pro was the first model in Apple's lineup to feature this connector, along with the Smart Keyboard. Since then, every iPad Pro model, including last year’s M5 iPad Pro, has included the three-dot connector.
In 2019, Apple expanded Smart Keyboard support to the iPad Air (3rd generation), adding the same connector to the Air lineup. All newer iPad Air models support Smart Connector accessories. The standard iPad models also received Smart Keyboard support in 2019, and recent base models include the three dots as well, though they are positioned on the side.













