Apple iPad event reportedly set for March 21; day before FBI hearing

The stage is set for Apple’s first big media event of the year. The tech giant is expected to unveil new additions to its iPad lineup and a new smaller iPhone on March 21, according to reports.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, both ReCode and Buzzfeed are reporting Apple will show off a number of new products during the event, including a new smartphone that may be called the “iPhone SE.”

The rumoured iPhone is expected to be smaller with a four-inch display, approximately the same size as the iPhone 5S. Both reports also suggest a new version of the iPad to be unveiled during the event.

Apple declined to comment on the reports and the event has not yet been officially announced.

READ MORE: Tech giants line up to support Apple in court

However, if both reports are correct, the event would fall just one day before representatives for the company are set to appear in a district court in California to oppose the FBI’s order to force it to hack an iPhone belonging to one of the San Bernardino shooters.

Last week, Apple filed an official order asking a federal magistrate to reverse the ruling, accusing the federal government of seeking “dangerous power” through the courts and of trampling on its constitutional rights.

The timing of the alleged iPad event could set the stage for some interesting remarks on the case from Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Apple vs. FBI: What happens next?

March 3: This is the deadline for any supporters or opponents of the case to file “friend of the court” briefs, stating their stance on the matter. A number of leading tech companies – including Microsoft, Google, Facebook and Twitter – have vowed to file a brief in support of Apple.

March 10: The government will have a chance to respond to Apple’s order asking the federal magistrate to reverse her order.

March 15: Once the government has issued its final response, Apple will have a chance to reply by this date.

March 22: Lawyers representing both Apple and the FBI will appear in a district court in California. Each side will argue their case to the magistrate judge, who is expected to hand down her ruling shortly after. The losing party will have the option to appeal the ruling.