This is the new Apple Pencil Pro for iPad, with major new features

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Apple is holding its “Let Loose” launch event today (7 May), where we expect to see new iPad releases and a refreshed Apple Pencil. But it looks like the stylus reveal is going to be a bigger deal than we first thought. And Apple has released a brand new Apple Pencil Pro model, with this big feature headlining the accessory.

Read more: Apple Pencil 4 rumours: what’s next for Apple’s smart stylus?

The headlining new feature for this stylus is a “squeeze” gesture for certain actions. There’s a new sensor inside to detect these squeezes, just like on the stems of AirPods Pro. It’ll deliver feedback thanks to haptics, and lets you bring up menus. A new gyroscope will let you roll the Pencil for more control.

Everything is now completely wire-free. It pairs, stores, and charges magnetically on the side of the new iPad Pro. It also now supports Find My, in case you lose it. Developers can even create custom interactions, giving users even more options. It works on both the iPad Air and iPad Pro from 2024.

Previously, the line-up of styluses for Apple’s tablet was pretty confusing. It comprised of Apple Pencil (1st generation), Apple Pencil (2nd generation), and Apple Pencil (USB-C). Thank god for brackets, eh? Obviously, you buy Apple Pencil (USB-C) for your USB-C iPad. Except, no. Because USB-C denotes the Apple Pencil itself has a (hidden) USB-C port. Unlike the 1st-gen (Lightning) and the 2nd-gen (wireless). We compared all the Apple Pencil options in a guide.

It starts at just $129/£129, and is available to order today. It’ll begin shipping out next week. Note that the Apple Pencil options have been culled to just two picks for the new iPad Air and Pro – they don’t support the older models. This new stylus also isn’t compatible with older iPad models.

Related: Apple iPad rumors: iPad Air set to go bigger, Pro to get OLED very soon

About

Connor is a writer for Stuff, working across the magazine and the Stuff.tv website. He has been writing for around seven years now, with writing across the web and in print too. Connor has experience on most major platforms, though does hold a place in his heart for macOS, iOS/iPadOS, electric vehicles, and smartphone tech. Just like everyone else around here, he’s a fan of gadgets of all sorts! Aside from writing, Connor is involved in the startup scene. This exciting involvement puts him at the front of new and exciting tech, always on the lookout for innovating products.