Speculation suggests that the Apple Vision Pro headset might eventually be compatible with an upcoming version of the Apple Pencil, according to a report from MacRumors. This information comes from an undisclosed “source familiar with the matter,” warranting a cautious approach to its credibility. The specifics of the integration are still vague, but the potential for transforming any space into a digital canvas is exciting.
The report indicates that the next Apple Pencil could work on solid surfaces, such as a table, with advanced features like pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition, allowing for precise artistic expressions within the headset’s drawing applications. Implementing stylus support would necessitate a software update, although it’s uncertain which visionOS version will include this feature. MacRumors suggests that the initial beta of visionOS 1.2, possibly introducing Apple Pencil compatibility, might be released soon, although these details are speculative, with internal testing presumably underway.
There’s no confirmation on when, or even if, this update will be released, and it’s conceivable it may not happen. Nevertheless, MacRumors speculates that an announcement could coincide with the unveiling of visionOS 2 at WWDC 2024 in June.
Additionally, it’s noted that a new iteration of the Apple Pencil is expected to launch with the latest iPad models shortly. It remains to be seen whether this new Pencil and the Vision Pro update are connected.
Analysis: Picking up the digital pen
If these rumors prove to be true (and we’re all hoping they are), integrating an Apple Pencil with the Vision Pro could significantly enhance precision and control. The headset’s primary appeal lies in its hands-free interaction, eliminating the need for traditional controllers by leveraging an advanced system of cameras and sensors. This setup allows users to intuitively use gestures and eye movements to navigate through menus and apps, which works well for general tasks. However, the challenge arises when attempting to draw or sketch.
An Editor experienced these difficulties firsthand while attempting to create illustrations on the Vision Pro, describing the ordeal as “extremely frustrating and challenging.” The issue stems from the conflict between gaze detection and manual gestures. Shifting your gaze between a reference image and your work on the digital canvas disrupts the process, as the headset tends to follow your focal point, leading to disarray in the artwork. Additionally, the current generation of art applications on the platform is plagued by bugs.
The anticipated Apple Pencil aims to solve these issues by offering a stable platform for digital art creation, eliminating the confusing interchange between eye and hand commands, and allowing for a more seamless drawing experience.
