Apple Inc. (AAPL) is apparently exploring the idea of introducing interchangeable sleeves for its Apple Pencil. These sleeves are expected to offer users enhanced controls, sensors, and extended battery life.
What Happened: Apple has filed a new patent application titled “Handheld Input Devices With Sleeves” with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
This application suggests that the tech giant is considering a significant upgrade to its Apple Pencil lineup.
The patent application outlines a handheld input device comprising a stylus and a removable sleeve.
The input-output capabilities of the device could be shared between the stylus and the removable sleeve, which could include haptic output devices and a battery. The sleeve could also be attached to an item without electronics.
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The application further explains that the sleeve could include conductors for translating touch input on the sleeve to the touch sensor circuitry on the stylus.
It could also have a deformable member for translating forces on the sleeve to the force-sensitive tip of the stylus and visual markers that can be detected by an external camera and used with motion sensor data from the stylus to track the handheld input device.
While the patent largely discusses the future of the Apple Pencil, it also hints at the potential for using this technology with everyday items.
For instance, a sensor-filled sleeve could be wrapped around a utensil, allowing its movements to be tracked with a mixed-reality headset such as Apple Vision Pro.
Why It Matters: This development comes after Apple launched a more economical variant of the Apple Pencil with a USB-C port in Oct. 2023.
The third-generation Apple Pencil, priced at $79, offers high precision, low latency, and tilt sensitivity.
The introduction of interchangeable sleeves could further enhance the functionality and versatility of the Apple Pencil, potentially attracting more users and boosting sales.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Apple via USPTO