The second-generation Apple Pencil was announced on October 30, 2018, alongside the third-generation iPad Pro, and is used with most iPad models that contain a USB-C connector (excluding the tenth-generation iPad). It uses a magnetic connector on the side of the tablet for charging rather than a Lightning connector, and includes touch-sensitive areas that can be tapped to perform actions within supported apps. In October 2023, Apple announced a third Apple Pencil model, intended as a lower-cost alternative to the second-generation Pencil on iPad models with USB-C connectors; this version removes the pen pressure sensitivity, touch-sensitive areas, and magnetic charging features, and is charged using a USB-C connector concealed by sliding up its cap.
Apple has promoted the Pencil as being oriented towards creative work and productivity;[7] during its unveiling, the Pencil's drawing capabilities were demonstrated using the mobile version of Adobe Photoshop,[8] and its document-annotation capabilities were shown on several Microsoft Office apps.[9][10]
Specifications
First generation
The Apple Pencil has pressure sensitivity and angle detection, and it was designed for low latency to enable smooth marking on the screen.[11][12] The Pencil and the user's fingers can be used simultaneously while rejecting input from the user's palm.[13][14] One end of the device has a magnetically-fastened removable cap which covers a Lightning connector which is used for charging from an iPad's Lightning port. A complete charge lasts about twelve hours, fifteen seconds of charging provides sufficient power for 30 minutes of use and it takes about 10 minutes to charge it fully.[15] It also ships with a female-to-female Lightning adapter that allows it to be used with charging cables.[16]
The first generation Apple Pencil, with its Lightning connector exposed. The accompanying female-to-female Lightning adapter is below the Pencil.
Second generation
On October 30, 2018, Apple announced an updated Pencil alongside the third-generation iPad Pro. It is similar in design and specifications to the first model, but without the detachable connector, and part of the stylus is flattened to inhibit rolling. It contains tap-sensitive zones on its sides that can be mapped to functions within apps.[21] The sixth-generation iPad Pro added the ability to detect Pencil position and angle up to 12 millimetres (0.47 in) above the screen.[22][23][24] Custom laser engraving is available when purchased via the Apple Store online.[21]
Rather than a physical Lightning connector, the second-generation Pencil is paired and charged using a proprietary magnetic wireless charging connector on the tablet instead. As such, it is only supported by the third-, fourth-, fifth- and sixth-generation iPad Pro,[21][25]sixth-generation iPad Mini, and the fourth-[26] and fifth-generation iPad Air. All of these models have USB-C connectors instead of Lightning, making them physically incompatible with the first-generation Pencil.[25][21]
USB-C
On October 17, 2023, Apple announced a new entry-level Pencil model, compatible with iPad models using USB-C connectors. This variant lacks pressure sensitivity and the tap-sensitive zones of the second-generation Pencil, but still supports hover detection on supported iPad models. It is charged via a USB-C port concealed by sliding up its cap.[27][28]
On May 7, 2024, Apple announced the new Apple Pencil Pro including a new sensor in the barrel of the pencil allowing squeeze and roll controls, and haptic feedback. The new model also supports Find My and is only compatible with the iPad Pro 11- and 13-inch with M4 chip, the iPad Air 11- and 13-inch with M2 chip and the iPad Mini with A17 Pro chip.[29]
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