Apple Unveils Apple Pencil (USB-C), The (Expanding) Apple Pencil Line, The Apple Pencil Strategy

Hello everyone. Apple unveiled a new Apple Pencil today via press release. The product has once again raised questions regarding Apple’s iPad strategy. There are several topics to discuss.

Let’s jump in.


Apple Unveils Apple Pencil (USB-C)

Here’s Apple:

“Today, Apple is bringing more choice to iPad users with a new, more affordable Apple Pencil. With pixel-perfect accuracy, low latency, and tilt sensitivity, the new Apple Pencil is ideal for note taking, sketching, annotating, journaling, and more. Designed with a matte finish and a flat side that magnetically attaches to the side of iPad for storage, the new Apple Pencil pairs and charges with a USB-C cable. The new Apple Pencil will be available beginning in early November.

'Apple Pencil has revolutionized note taking, sketching, and illustrating, unleashing endless possibilities for productivity and creativity,' said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. 'Combined with the versatility of iPad, the new Apple Pencil unlocks another great option to experience the magic of digital handwriting, annotation, marking up documents, and more.'"

 
 

It may be tempting to think that the inclusion of a USB-C charging port means this is the new Apple Pencil aimed at all iPad users. However, Apple isn’t calling this new pencil Apple Pencil (3rd gen). Instead, it’s Apple Pencil (USB-C). This tells us that the new Apple Pencil is targeted at a segment of the iPad installed base – specifically those

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