iPad might receive USB mouse support with iOS 13 as an accessibility service

It seems like Apple has taken note of what its users need and is bringing USB mouse support to the iPad. MacRumours notes that Federico Viticci, MacStories' editor-in-chief, slipped out the scoop in an episode of the Connected podcast. The same information was iterated by the noted developer Steve Toughton-Smith, who tweeted, “Despite having so much context as to what’s coming at WWDC, or perhaps because of it, this is the most excited I’ve been about a WWDC in a decade. There are so many hugely transformative things on the horizon — iOS apps on the Mac, iPad windowing & mouse support, iTunes breakup…”

"What I heard is without adapters, you will be able to use any USB mouse on your iPad, but as an accessibility device," said Viticci. "The iPad Pro has a USB-C port, so just plug in a USB mouse and if you have physical impairments, if you have any other kinds of motor impairments, just use a USB mouse in accessibility mode." Seems like Apple will be introducing the option of using a USB mouse as an accessibility feature but the option, if announced, will certainly help iPad consumers work better on the device and bridge the gap between a tablet and a laptop. 

It has been possible to use an accessory like a joystick or a trackball to control an iPad or an iPhone via Apple's AssistiveTouch accessibility feature. However, the new direct support for a USB mouse will most likely eliminate the need for an adapter or any other similar kind of hardware. Additionally, Toughton-Smith notes that this won’t be the first time Apple is introducing a feature under accessibility services and all users will get to switch the feature on from settings. He adds that iOS might bring a “small circle or dot" to replace a mouse’s cursor. 

Follow Us

Digit NewsDesk

Digit News Desk writes news stories across a range of topics. Getting you news updates on the latest in the world of tech. View Full Profile