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Apple has introduced an affordable Apple Pencil with USB-C connectivity, offering an economical option for iPad users. Priced at Rs 7,900, this new accessory features a sliding cap design that reveals the USB-C port, simplifying the charging and pairing process with compatible iPads. It can also securely attach to the side of an iPad, including the 10th-generation model introduced last year. The new budget-friendly Apple Pencil is priced lower than Apple's 2nd-gen Pencil, which retailed at Rs 11,900 in India.
Despite its lower cost, the budget Apple Pencil comes with some trade-offs compared to its more advanced counterparts. It lacks certain features like pressure sensitivity, wireless pairing and charging, and the double-tap functionality for switching tools. However, it still supports hover functionality, particularly with M2 models of the iPad Pro. It also offers support for low latency, tilt sensitivity, and pixel precision.
The compatibility of the new Apple Pencil extends to various iPad models equipped with a USB-C port, including the iPad (10th generation), iPad Air (4th and 5th generations), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generations), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generations), and iPad mini (6th generation).
The cost-effective Apple Pencil can be purchased separately for Rs 7,900 in India and will be available starting in early November. It features a sliding cap that reveals the USB-C port, facilitating easy connection using a USB-C cable for pairing and charging. When magnetically attached to the iPad for storage, the new Apple Pencil enters a sleep state to conserve its battery life.
Additionally, Apple is offering an even more budget-friendly option as part of its education program. The new Apple Pencil will be available for Rs 6,900 for students and educators, including current and newly accepted college students, their parents, faculty, staff, and home-school teachers of all grade levels.
While there were expectations of new iPad launches, Apple has focused on enhancing its accessory offerings to cater to a wider range of iPad users, including budget-conscious consumers and the education sector. The tech giant has launched a variety of iPad models in recent months, and the introduction of the affordable Apple Pencil complements its existing product lineup.
