Apple is expected to unveil new iPad Pro and iPad Air models soon. It is also reported that the Cupertino-based tech giant is developing new accessories for the tablet. According to a report from 9to5Mac, evidence was recently discovered that suggests the company is working on a new Apple Pencil 3 model. The report also notes that the iPad accessory will likely feature a new “grip” gesture.
What is the “grab” gesture and how does it work?
Earlier this week, Apple released the beta version of iPadOS 17.5 to developers. The latest beta code reportedly contains several references to the new Apple Pencil gesture called “Push.”
According to the report, this gesture can be used for quick interactions with the iPad, such as adding shapes, signatures, captions, and text boxes. Users may be able to activate gestures by pressing on the surface of the upcoming Apple Pencil model.
However, this isn’t the first Apple Pencil to support gestures. Apple Pencil 2 supports double-tap gestures that allow users to switch between different tools in certain apps. According to the report, Apple has not placed a pressure sensor (located only on the tip) on the surface of the accessory for this feature.
This suggests that the new “push” gesture available in the iPadOS 17.5 beta will also be added to the rumored Apple Pencil 3.
Additionally, Apple is apparently updating the Apple Pencil pairing interface for the first time to support new and non-existent hardware.
Earlier this year, another report found evidence of Apple Pencil support in the Find My app. It’s important to note that none of the Apple Pencil models are currently discoverable via the Find My network.
According to this report, iPadOS 17.4 also introduced a new version of the PencilKit API. Developers can use this API to make their apps compatible with the upcoming Apple Pencil.
However, Apple has not yet announced what new features PencilKit 3 will bring to users. According to rumors, the Apple Pencil 3 may also support replaceable magnetic tips.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
