Apple revealed a new Apple Pencil that is marketed as “affordable” and features a USB-C connector, priced at $79. The company touts it as ideal for various tasks such as note-taking, sketching, annotating, and journaling, retaining the matte finish and flat design from its predecessor.
This fresh iteration of the Apple Pencil is set to hit the market in early November and is compatible with any iPad possessing a USB-C port. A notable innovation is the inclusion of an actual USB-C port for charging, replacing the connector used in the current models. To charge it, you simply remove the cap to access the port and plug in a cable.
While the new Pencil maintains the same advanced qualities of pixel-perfect accuracy, low latency, and tilt sensitivity, it appears to lack pressure sensitivity. Nevertheless, it will support hover functionality when used with M2 iPad Pro models. Unlike the second-generation Apple Pencil, this version does not offer magnetic wireless pairing and charging.
Priced at $79, this new Pencil will be available in early November and is compatible with a range of Apple’s iPads, including the iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (4th and 5th generations), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generations), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generations), and iPad mini (6th generation).
Rumors had circulated about Apple potentially unveiling new iPad models, such as a new iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad 11th generation, but they have not been officially announced yet. Apple has a history of releasing multiple products in a single day, so there may still be surprises in store.
While this new Apple Pencil offers a more budget-friendly option at $79, it’s worth noting that the second-generation Apple Pencil, which has been on the market for some time, often sees discounts, with prices dropping to $89 during significant events like Prime Day. It’s likely that similar discounts will be available during the upcoming Black Friday sale.