Apple unveils Apple Pencil Pro with true haptic controls and Function Keys for the Magic Keyboard
New Apple accessories are here but with a catch. They only work with the latest iPad. #apple #iPad #iPados
Note: This article was first published on 8 May 2024.
The newest Apple Pencil Pro is the 4th iteration of Apple Pencil to be released. (Image Source: Apple)
During the Apple Let Loose event today, Apple has announced the newest Apple Pencil Pro and Magic keyboard. The Apple Pencil Pro and Magic keyboard launch accompany the latest iPad Pro and iPad Air.
The newest Apple Pencil Pro features a new tactile sensor. Squeezing the new stylus allows you to quickly switch tools, line weights, and colours during drawing. This is great for boosting productivity, allowing you to continue your work without lifting your hand off the screen to change the tool or colour.
Under the shell of the Apple Pencil Pro's top lies a custom haptic engine that provides light pulse feedback whenever you squeeze or double-tap, confirming the action. There is also a new gyroscope that allows you to rotate the Apple Pencil Pro for precise control of shaped pen and brush tools, as shown in the demo video.
All the features of the new Apple Pencil Pro (Image Source: Apple)
As with all previous iterations of the Apple Pencil, it will also have pressure sensitivity, pixel-level precision, low latency, and tilt sensitivity. All core features allow you to write or sketch with high accuracy and experience a true pencil-like experience.
The Apple Pencil Pro will magnetically attach, pair, and charge to the side of the iPad, reducing one more cable in your bag. Should you misplace it during use, the Apple Pencil Pro can be located in the Find My app.
Unfortunately, for those seeking to buy the latest Apple Pencil Pro for their current iPads, the Apple Pencil Pro will only be compatible with the 2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air that were announced alongside the accessory.
The Magic Keyboard now has a function row. (Image Source: Apple)
The other accessory that Apple updated was the Magic Keyboard. The Magic Keyboard now features a 14-key function row to access screen brightness, volume controls and other features. It also has a larger glass trackpad.
The Magic Keyboard features the same thin and portable cantilever design which can be folded into a case to provide front and back protection. It also includes a USB-C connector. The keys on the keyboard are backlit and use the scissor mechanism with 1mm for quiet, responsive typing.
The Magic Keyboard will come in White and Black for both 11 and 13-inch versions.
One notable drawback of both accessories is their lack of compatibility with previous generations of iPads. Though the new Apple Pencil Pro provides better access to software shortcuts, artists will likely continue to use dedicated drawing tablets for creative work.
Pricing and availability
The Apple Pencil Pro will retail for S$199.
The Magic Keyboard will retail for S$449 and S$529 for the 11-inch and 13-inch iPads respectively.
For education pricing, the Apple Pencil Pro will retail for S$179. The 11-inch Magic Keyboard will be available for S$419, and the 13-inch Magic Keyboard for S$499.
Both accessories are now available for pre-order and will begin retailing starting Wednesday, 15 May.
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