Rumors have suggested that Apple may announce new iPads soon. Before that happens, the company has surprised us all and announced a new Apple Pencil. However, its placement among the rest of the Apple Pencil lineup may cause confusion.
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) – that’s the official name – is a stylus that works with any iPad with a USB-C port. This includes the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (third, fourth, fifth, and sixth generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (first, second, third, and fourth generation), iPad Air (fourth and fifth generation), iPad mini (sixth generation). generation), and iPad (10th generation).
Apple is set to release a USB-C version of the Apple Pencil in November. The new version will be the cheapest yet, priced at $79. That’s $20 less than the first-generation model and $50 less than the second-generation Apple Pencil. Both these Apple pencils will remain in the market.
There are some drawbacks to paying less for the new Apple Pencil, as the USB-C version doesn’t have all the features that were available on other models.
A new Apple Pencil with missing features
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) will allow you to write, sketch, and draw accurately. The pencil has low latency, making it feel just as natural and responsive as using a traditional pencil on paper. The tilt sensitivity feature allows the creation of shading and other effects. Additionally, the new Apple Pencil (USB-C) supports hover capability on the iPad Pro, allowing users to preview a mark before making it.
Like the second-generation Apple Pencil, the new Pencil magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad, making it easy to store. However, unlike the older version, it does not support wireless pairing and charging.
The USB-C version of the Apple Pencil also lacks the pressure sensitivity found in the first and second generation models. This means that the pressure you use on the tablet will not be reflected in the thickness of the line. The double-tap feature found in the second generation Apple Pencil is also missing. This feature allows you to quickly switch between tools by double-tapping the pencil.
Although the latest version of the Apple Pencil (USB-C) may lack some features compared to previous versions, it supports a wide range of new iPad-based features that came with iPadOS 17. These features include new tools for both the native Freeform and Notes apps and a redesigned lock screen that enables expressive fonts and colors for personalization.
The stylus has a sliding cap that reveals a USB-C port for charging. You’ll need a USB-C cable to charge or pair the Pencil, which is not included in the product box. The Apple Pencil (USB-C) for education costs $69. For existing Apple Pencil (1st generation) users, Apple offers a $9 USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter.
Undoubtedly, Apple anticipates attracting new users to the Apple Pencil due to the more affordable price of the latest model. However, with all three models being quite similar to each other, it may be confusing for some users to determine which Pencil is compatible with which tablet. Fortunately, the Apple website provides guidance to help users identify the correct Apple Pencil for their device.