The Magic Trackpad is a multi-touch and force touch touchpad produced by Apple Inc. The first generation version was released on July 27, 2010, and featured a trackpad 80% larger than the built-in trackpad found on the then-current MacBook family of laptops. A redesigned second generation version, initially marketed as Magic Trackpad 2, was released on October 13, 2015.
Models
1st generation
The first generation Magic Trackpad was released on July 27, 2010. It is made of glass and aluminum in the same style as Apple's Wireless Keyboard and sits flush with it.
The entire trackpad can be used as a button, pressing down on the trackpad puts pressure on two circular feet below to register a click.
The trackpad connects via
Bluetooth and is powered by two AA batteries.
2nd generation
The second generation Magic Trackpad, initially marketed as the Magic Trackpad 2, was released on October 13, 2015, alongside the Magic Keyboard and
Magic Mouse.
It had 29% more surface area than the first generation model, features an enclosed wedge design, and adds support for
Force Touch.
It also provides haptic feedback via Apple's built-in
Linear actuator that is also used in
MacBook trackpads.
It includes a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery and uses the Lightning connector for charging and pairing.
Released in 2020,
iPadOS 13.4 introduced mouse support to iPads for the first time, and supports all functionality of the second-generation Magic Trackpad.
It was originally released in white, and was followed by a space gray version that was introduced with the iMac Pro in 2017 alongside a color-matching Magic Keyboard; both were later made available as standalone purchases.
Reception
Reviews of the first generation Magic Trackpad lauded its design but criticized its price. Scott Stein of
CNET wrote, "Apple's $69 Bluetooth device is minimalist and not particularly cheap"; "We're not sure we'd ditch our mouse and use the Magic Trackpad, but it's a compact solution for the touch-addicted."
also praised the trackpad's design similarity with the Apple Wireless Keyboard: "The Magic Trackpad is the same height and angle of inclination as the Apple Wireless Keyboard, making them a good fit, in terms of size and style."
In reviews of the second-generation Magic Trackpad, reviewers praised the new Force Touch functionality, better ergonomics over the Magic Mouse, and full compatibility with macOS and iPadOS, but noted its high price tag.
See also
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