Shocking as it may seem, it’s been nearly a decade since the first Apple Pencil was announced, way back in 2015. The stylus hasn’t seen much in the way of updates since then. The most significant arrived in 2018 , bringing magnetic charging to the line. Last year, meanwhile, saw the arrival of a less expensive model with fewer features and USB-C charging.
The device has been overdue for a major upgrade, so much so that the company made it the focal point of invites for Tuesday’s “Let Loose” event .
Now the line is getting a Pro model. A new sensor adds a squeeze function to the device, that lets users swap between brushes. A haptic sensor has been added as well, bringing tactile feedback to the product.
The new version of the Pencil also brings Find My to the line — a welcome addition to a device that is easily lost between couch cushions.
The premium model is compatible with both the new iPad Pro and iPad Air . With the former, it takes advantage of the M4 chip , bringing new capabilities, including adjusting bokeh effects on the fly.
The Pencil Pro runs $129. It’s up for pre-order now and starts shipping next week.
