A new improved version of the Apple Pencil could be introduced alongside the new iPad Pro, according to rumors from the Asian supply chain.
According to Chinese website Wei Feng, the updated stylus and 10.5-inch iPad Pro could be announced in March – just in time for a refresh.
Apple last updated its iPad lineup with the 9.7-inch iPad Pro a year ago. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro has yet to receive an update, having been released in 2015.
While the report doesn't provide details on what the "Apple Pencil 2" will feature, Apple, which has leaked Apple parts in the past, suggests that the new stylus could include magnets to attach to iPads, iPad cases, or some kind of Smart Connector support (wireless charging?).
Magnetic connectors wouldn't be completely out of the question. In 2015, Apple filed a patent for a stylus that magnetically attaches to the side of a tablet. In August, Bloomberg reported that Apple was planning to "improve the Apple Pencil," though these could be software-based.
Plus, before the iPhone 7 was unveiled, Apple was rumored to be launching Apple Pencil support for the iPhone. Could an updated stylus that works with the iPhone make us ditch our Moleskines?
Another direction Apple could take the stylus is MacBook support. Apple already holds a patent for a stylus that could work with a laptop's trackpad. Apple's new MacBook Pro also comes with extra-large touchpads.
However, one thing we hope for the Apple Pencil 2 is a lower price. $99 is a lot for a stylus. Even if it is amazing.
