Not only is Apple expected to launch updated iPad Pro models early next year, but the company is also working on two new Apple Pencil models to complement the iPad Pro, specifically new generations of both the universal Apple Pencil (USB-C) and the higher-end Apple Pencil Pro.
According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, he expects the new versions of the Apple Pencil models to feature “new battery systems”, which could indicate that the batteries may be easily replaceable. If you own an Apple Pencil and you’re running low on battery, you’d have to recharge it, and the charging method varies depending on the model:
- 1st generation model: remove the cap and plug the Pencil directly into the Lightning port of a compatible iPad.
- 2nd generation model / Pro model: attach the Pencil onto the magnetic connector on the side of a compatible iPad.
- USB-C model: plug a USB-C cable into both the compatible iPad’s USB-C port and the Pencil itself
However, if the battery degrades, then it’s just impossible to replace the battery in any of the Pencil models, which could lead to more e-waste. Hopefully, this problem could be remedied soon based on today’s report. After all, AirTag has used replaceable batteries since the original model, so having replaceable batteries in upcoming Apple Pencil models should allow Apple to satisfy upcoming EU legislation to make batteries user-replaceable. (Keep in mind that iPhones are exempt from those requirements, so iPhones will continue to feature non-removable batteries)
The next iPad Pro is expected to come out in the first half of next year with either the M6 or the M7 chip, so it’s likely that the new Pencil models will launch alongside that iPad Pro.
