Is a new Apple Pencil with haptics on the way? The original Apple Pencil was launched in 2015 alongside the original iPad Pro. It set the standard for user experience for a pen-based input device. Since then Apple has updated it with a second-generation offering lower latency, magnetic wireless charging and touch controls. But it seems Apple is investigating ways to make the Apple Pencil even more enjoyable and functional to use.
According to a new patent noticed by Appleworld.today, Apple is exploring adding haptic feedback to the next Apple pencil with audible feedback. The patent in question (11,221,677) describes how the tech giant could add haptics to the popular input device. Apple would achieve this with a complex array of force sensors, a haptic motor (perhaps an embedded taptic engine?) and a speaker.
While Apple doesn’t fully describe the applications of this patent, it isn’t hard to imagine the ways it might be implemented. Perhaps as you press harder you receive more haptic feedback as if you were drawing on paper. Or when tapping on user interface elements with the pencil you receive both audible and physical feedback. You can even foresee games taking advantage of this, much like Sony’s PS5 Dual Sense controller.
The next version of the Apple Pencil will likely arrive with the rumoured redesign of the iPad Pro due later in 2022. Stay tuned for any updates!
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