Apple plans new iPads, Apple Pencil, Magic Trackpad next year

Apple is seeking to reverse a decline in Mac and iPad sales by preparing several new models and upgrades for early next year, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman (a subscription is required to read the article).

The tech giant will update the iPad Air, iPad Pro and MacBook Air, he adds. Gurman says the new iPad Air will come in two sizes for the first time, and the Pro model will get OLED (organic light-emitting diode) screens, while a new MacBook Air will pack an M3 processor.

The ‌iPad Air‌ will purportedly come in two sizes like the ‌iPad Pro‌ for the first time. The smaller model will continue to measure at 10.9 inches, but the larger version will be 12.9 inches.

What’s more, Gurman says Apple will also introduce a new Apple Pencil and new Magic Keyboards. The latter will purportedly have a sturdier frame made from aluminum, which will allow the ‌iPad‌ to more closely resemble a laptop.

What new features might an Apple Pencil 3 include? Previous rumors have suggested the following:

° New sensors for more haptic feedback features;

° The tip of the Apple Pencil could have new tech that supports additional features or more accurate drawing accuracy.

° Support for a rolling gesture that would allow you to zoom in on the iPad. 

° A pivotal end that allows for rolling and sliding gestures.

° And (the least likely of all to appear next year): the ability for the Apple Pencil to scan colors from real-life environments into the iPad.

What’s more, future Apple Pencils could measure the coordinates of a 3D object and create 3D illustrations, as hinted at by an Apple patent (number 10,739,870) for a “stylus for coordinate measuring.”

Per the patent data, position data can be calculated based on, for example, acceleration, orientation, and static parameters of a stylus. As the Apple Pencil contacts contours of the object, the position data of the Pencil can allow mapping of the object as well as digital rendering thereof. The Apple Pencil can also be used to virtually create three-dimensional illustrations.                  

When/if we get an Apple Pencil 3, I want one in a space grey or black option. After all, the iPad Pro is available in space grey, and some of us like our accessories to match our tablet. 

Along the same lines, I’d also like more color options for the iPad Pro. If that happens, I’d also like a matching Apple Pencil. (Sky blue, perhaps?)\