Apple has released what it calls a “more affordable” Apple Pencil, adding USB-C charging to all modern iPads, but removing one major feature.
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The new Apple Pencil is more universal than previous models and works with all iPad models that have a USB-C port. These include iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (4th and 5th generation), 11-inch iPad Pro (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation).
Instead of relying on a cap to cover the connector like the first-generation model or wireless charging like the second-generation version, the new Apple Pencil features a cap that you can slide off to reveal a USB-C port, which accepts a cable for charging. While it doesn't feature wireless charging, the new model attaches magnetically to the side of an iPad.
Apple says the latest model has the same accuracy, low latency, and tilt sensitivity as other Apple Pencil models. Like the second-generation model, it also includes Hover on the iPad Pro, so users can preview on the screen where their Apple Pencil will mark.
One surprisingly absent element is pressure sensitivity, a core feature of the first and second generation models, but absent from the USB-C version.
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According to Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, “Apple Pencil has revolutionized note-taking, drawing and illustration, opening up endless possibilities for productivity and creativity. Combined with the versatility of iPad, the new Apple Pencil reveals another great option for experiencing the magic of digital writing, document editing and more.”
The new Apple Pencil will be available in early November and will cost $79.
USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is the latest development of the USB standard. This type of connector represents a radical change from the previous USB types: Mini and Micro, because it relies on a “symmetrical” connector type connection, which essentially means that the user can connect the adapter in either direction.
See also: iPhone 15: An Android USB-C cable may finally damage it
Aside from this obvious improvement, what are the differences of USB-C charging compared to other charging methods?
- Charging Power: USB-C offers higher charging power compared to previous USB standards, which means faster charging times.
- Data Transfer: USB-C supports both power charging and data transfer at the same time, unlike some older versions of USB.
- Power Redirection: USB-C has the inability to redirect the power of a USB-C fast charger to additional devices.
With the introduction of USB-C in the third-generation Apple Pencil, Apple now offers a full range of products that support this technology.
Source: appleinsider
