Apple's Next-Generation Pencil: USB-C Charging and More

• Apple
• Gadget

With the spirit of continuous innovation, Apple recently unveiled its third-generation Apple Pencil, now featuring USB-C charging. This move comes as Apple progressively shifts towards universal charging, a trend the European Union regulators encouraged.

This announcement follows Apple's retirement of the iconic Lightning charger, marking a significant milestone in the tech giant's product evolution.

Apple's embrace of USB-C charging continues with its latest Apple Pencil, which is more economical and user-friendly than ever.

A Deeper Look at the New Apple Pencil

Like its predecessors, the new Apple Pencil is designed for note-taking, sketching, and document annotation. It supports the hover feature, allowing users to preview and switch between tools and app controls. This feature is especially handy with a 12.9-inch iPad Pro (6th generation) or an 11-inch iPad Pro (4th generation).

The most significant change, however, is the switch to the USB-C charging system. This transition is particularly noteworthy given Apple's historical resistance to such a move. However, the change is set to simplify charging for the company's vast user base.

Apple's Sweeping Change to USB-C

In a previous announcement at the iPhone 15 event, Apple confirmed that all its new-generation smartphones and the new AirPods Pro would feature USB-C charging. This came after Apple had already made the switch for its iPads and MacBooks.

The shift to USB-C is not merely a product decision but also a move towards compliance with recent EU legislation. The law, which is the first of its kind, requires all small devices, including smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, and portable speakers, to support USB-C charging by 2024.

This legislation aims to reduce the number of chargers and cables consumers must manage when purchasing a new device. It encourages compatibility between machines and chargers, even those produced by different manufacturers. While this means Apple is giving up control of its wired charging ecosystem, it also challenges consumers to differentiate between good and bad chargers.

Apple Pencil Sales and Market Impact

While Apple does not reveal specific sales figures for the Pencil, estimates suggest that about 42 million units have been sold since its launch in 2015. This figure is based on the assumption that 10% or fewer of the 420 million iPad consumers have purchased an Apple Pencil.

The relatively high cost and premium use case of the Apple Pencil and the availability of more affordable alternatives could be reasons for these sales figures. However, with the new features and lowered price of $79, Apple could see an increase in adopting its latest-generation Pencil.