New Apple pencil allegedly leaks with glossy finish and redesigned nib

Images allegedly depicting a third generation Apple pencil were shared on Twitter for the leak known as “Mr. White. “

The supposed new ‌Apple Pencil‌ seems to share a design very similar to the current second generation ‌Apple Pencil‌, which is shorter than the previous version and charges inductively on the side of an iPad.

The updated ‌Apple Pencil‌ appears to have a glossy finish, much like that used in ‌Apple Pencil‌ or first generation AirPods, instead of the matte white finish used in the second version of the accessory.

The other notable difference is the ‌Apple Pencil‌ tip. The first and second generation ‌Apple Pencil‌ have small screw tips that can be easily replaced when worn. This updated model appears to have a considerably larger tip component, with a much longer section that is screwed onto the ‌Apple Pencil‌ itself. It is not clear why a new version of ‌Apple Pencil‌ may have a redesigned edge, but it is probably indicative of changes in internal design.

The redesigned head can signal that a new feature is reaching the tip of the ‌Apple Pencil‌. In July last year, Apple applied for a patent for an ‌Apple Pencil‌ tip that would allow the device to sample real-world colors through a color sensor, so it’s clear that Apple is interested in expanding the usefulness of its PiPad‌ pen.

In short, the image suggests that updates to the new ‌Apple Pencil may be more focused on the inside of the accessory, rather than any significant external design changes. However, it is reasonable to expect that some functionality added to the current model justifies a new iteration of the device.

“Mr. White” has already leaked correct images of the iPad mini 5, the rear window of the Graphite iPhone 12 Pro, the screen of the iPhone 12 mini and the components of the A14 chip. Other leaks, such as a braided Lightning cable and a black Apple Pencil color option, have not yet emerged, but overall “Mr. White” appears to have a reliable track record.

It is also important to note that new iPad Pro models are expected to arrive this month, so the timing of this leak could increase its reliability. The new areiPad Pro‌ models are expected to feature updated A-series chips and mini-LED screens, all in a practically unchanged design.