Apple’s newly announced 10th-generation iPad is finally ditching the Lightning port for a USB-C port. But in a bit of irony, the change will saddle customers with an extra dongle if they try to use the tablet with an Apple Pencil.
In announcing the new iPad, Cupertino revealed that the tablet only supports the first-generation Apple Pencil. That’s problematic because the stylus can only be paired with a compatible iPad by slotting the Apple Pencil directly into the tablet’s Lightning port.
In contrast, the second-generation Apple Pencil can be paired wirelessly by attaching the stylus to the magnetic connector on a supported iPad.
To solve the compatibility problem, Apple on Tuesday also unveiled a new USB-C to Lightning adapter for the first-generation Apple Pencil; it's on sale now for $9.
The product page for the accessory says: “The USB-C to Apple Pencil Adapter is required to pair and charge Apple Pencil (1st generation) with iPad (10th generation). Your Apple Pencil plugs into one end of the adapter and the USB-C Charge Cable from your iPad plugs into the other.”
The good news is that the company will bundle the adapter with the first-generation Apple Pencil. Buyers will actually get two adapters—the original Lightning adapter and the USB-C adapter—after paying $99 for the product.
Those who already own a first-gen Apple Pencil will have to fork over $9 to get the new adapter.
The solution is certainly awkward. It also remains unclear why Apple refrained from adding support for the second-generation Apple Pencil to the new iPad. The company didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. But hopefully, Cupertino can add a wireless pairing mechanism in the future for first-gen Apple Pencils.