On Tuesday, Apple will have their spring Apple event. We’re expecting a spec bump for the iPad Pro and perhaps a new iPad mini. Apple could also introduce a spec bump for the Apple TV. Stretch goals include the AirPods 3 we’ve seen in a few leaks that borrow the AirPods Pro design, and finally, Apple’s AirTags, little trackers for the Find My app.
Along with those new iPads, we’ve seen leaks for an Apple Pencil 3. Apple just released the Apple Pencil 2 not long ago, but they may have decided to update it. It could even feature backwards compatibility with the iPads that support the Apple Pencil 2.
The leaked design (see below) seems to move the metal part of Apple’s nib, the actual sensor, into the body. It also seems to feature a larger nib. Apple is also getting rid of the matte texture to bring back the glossy texture of the first Apple Pencil.
Apple’s spring event will be called “Spring Loaded,” according to official invites that went to journalists. Cute, right? It’s spring, the name makes sense. But what in Apple’s lineup could use a spring? Certainly not the iPad. Maybe a new hinge design for the iMac? What do I think? I think it’s a reference to the Apple Pencil 3. It’s possible Apple will improve the feel of writing with the Apple Pencil 3 with a spring.
I know, what a simple idea, right? But Apple’s naming and designs rarely have a deep meaning. Usually it’s just something clever that people won’t realize until after the event. A “spring loaded” Apple Pencil 3 makes a lot of sense.
Different Nib, New Internals?
https://twitter.com/laobaiTD/status/1367102458124660745?s=20
We already know that the Apple Pencil 3 will feature a new nib design. It’s longer, and goes into the body of the device more. The sensor that usually protrudes from the end of the Apple Pencil seems to be internal now. It’s possible that the nib itself will contain some form of sensor or connection to transfer force to the inside of the Apple Pencil.
Writing with the Apple Pencil has had a few complaints. Most users don’t like the way the Apple Pencil feels on the iPad. They go out and buy things like matte screen protectors to create a more “Paperlike” feel. What if Apple decided to fix that problem from the Apple Pencil? What would that change look like? Likely just some cushioning when you touch the Pencil to the iPad. This would function much like gasket mounted keyboards. It softens the impact. That alone could reduce the harshness of writing or drawing on a piece of glass. When you think of it, normal pens and pencils don’t have this kind of cushioning, but your writing material likely does. You likely have a pad of paper, or a notebook, and the paper is the cushion. Since the iPad can’t soften the impact of a pen touch like that, the Apple Pencil has to do it.
So, as for the secret meaning of “Spring Loaded?” I think it’s as simple as Apple put a “spring” in the Apple Pencil 3 to make it feel a bit nicer to write with.
We’ll find out more on Tuesday!