Apple Pencil 3 rumoured to feature haptic feedback, work with Apple Vision Pro

While much is being discussed about the upcoming iPad Pro models and Magic Keyboard set to be revealed on Apple’s May 7 “Let Loose” event, some news have also emerged about the new 3rd generation Apple Pencil. As per a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Apple Pencil 3 will feature haptic feedback for an enhanced user experience. 

Previously, we had reported that the iPadOS 17.5 Beta 1 code revealed new ‘LongSqueeze’ and ‘DoubleSqueeze’ gestures for the Apple Pencil 3, similar to those seen on AirPods stems. Now, Apple certainly knows a thing or two about creating a magical-feeling yet highly intuitive user experience with its hardware, and it will surely play with a thoughtful combination of haptic feedback, squeeze gestures, as well as the existing pressure and tilt sensitivity.

For instance, while no further specific details are available on the haptic feedback, it could be useful for indicating a change of drawing tool or eraser (or any function the squeeze gestures activate), crossing a threshold in applied pressure or tilt angle, or even drawing outside a predefined region. However Apple does it, the resulting experience will surely enhance the device’s functionality and ease of use, especially for those who use the stylus regularly or rely on it for work.

Separately, MacRumors had reported that testing has been underway for using the Apple Pencil with the Vision Pro headset. Again, no hard details were provided, but it's being speculated that this will allow users to draw using the Apple Pencil on practically any surface, with Vision Pro capturing the drawing or written text.

That said, it is unclear when this feature will be officially released. No sign of it has so far been spotted in the visionOS 1.2 Beta, and visionOS 2 is expected to be launched in June at Apple’s WWDC developers’ conference, so it is unlikely to make an appearance in the May 7 event. Possibly a future firmware update for the Apple Pencil will enable the functionality.

Buy the latest iPad Air 5th gen with M1 chip, and a 4-pack of Apple Pencil tips on Amazon. If you're not too keen on the new features, you can also pick up the Apple Pencil 2nd gen, available at a 39% discount as of this writing – its lowest price yet on Amazon.