Thanks to a new image from a reliable Apple leaker, it appears that a third-generation Apple Pencil is in the works and coming soon. The Apple Pencil was first unveiled back in 2015, and then in 2018, Apple launched the second-gen model with a new design, upgraded charging system, and new gestures. It was a considerable improvement over the original version, and now for 2021, Apple is poised to reenvision the Apple Pencil yet again.
Rumor has it that Apple is announcing new iPad Pro models at some point in March, likely in the form of a virtual press event with a pre-recorded video. With new iPads on the way and the second-gen Apple Pencil over two years old, the timing makes sense for a new Apple Pencil to make its way into the market. Looking at this new image that was just released, there are a couple of key changes that are worth talking about.
Starting with the smaller of the two changes seen in the leak from Mr. White on Twitter, this third-generation Apple Pencil appears to have a glossy finish where the second-gen model is matte. This seems like a step backward as far as design is concerned, but is likely just Apple making some sort of visual tweak so people know if they have the new or old model. More important than that, however, is the tip. On the second-gen Apple Pencil that's currently available, the tip is removed by unscrewing it from a metal base so users can swap it out as it starts to age and wear down. As shown in the picture of the third-gen Apple Pencil, the tip now comes off with a longer base attached to it.
Two Big Changes For Apple Pencil 3rd Gen
As of right now, it's unclear what this redesigned tip means. It could be that Apple is using different components inside of the third-gen Apple Pencil for new features, or Apple found a way to cram a bigger battery inside. It's also entirely possible that nothing like that is changed and this is simply a tweak to make the tip easier to remove/attach. That said, it is expected that something will be new with the third-generation Apple Pencil to warrant a completely new model like this.
While this leak doesn't reveal anything about pricing, it's safe to say that the third-gen Apple Pencil will be priced similarly to the second-gen model — meaning $129 (if not more). Apple could then discontinue the second-generation Apple Pencil and replace it entirely with the third-gen model, or keep it around at a slightly cheaper price.
Source: Mr. White