Dual front cameras on the next generation iPad Pro might unlock new features.

Mark Gurman via his Power On newsletter:

When Apple rolled out the M4 iPad Pro in May 2024, it made the device thinner and (finally) moved the FaceTime camera from the portrait orientation to landscape. This was a nice change for those, like me, who live on landscape mode and rarely ever move into portrait orientation. The switch made it easier to use Face ID without issues and was a big improvement for both selfies and videoconferencing.

On the other hand, fans of portrait mode suddenly found it harder to unlock the device and use the front camera. So, what’s the solution? Pretty simple actually: Apple is apparently adding a second, portrait-side front-facing camera to the upcoming M5 iPad Pro, presumably so FaceTimers and selfie fans can use the device equally well in either orientation. This isn’t particularly revolutionary, but it’s a nice enhancement.

To make it really convenient to unlock in either orientation, you would ideally need another Face ID assembly with the extra camera in order to avoid getting that “Camera covered” message. Not sure if that will happen, but Apple might throw in some new features that Mark didn’t mention, such as a wider range for Center Stage, or even Desk View for iPad.