Apple Might Launch a Stylus With iPad Pro, Analyst Suggests
Apple might be launching a stylus alongside the gigantic iPad Pro, before the end of this year, according to various reports. The stylus accompanying the 12.9-inch iPad Pro would likely enhance the utility of the extra large tablet.
The information comes from Ming-Chi Kuo - a well regarded analyst, who is also considered a reliable source. Kuo backs his theory by pointing to a number of stylus patents that Apple has filed recently.
Although there are plenty iPad-compatible styluses available, the one from Apple, according to Kuo, would "improve the user experience of 12.9-inch iPad."
In some situations, styluses turn out to be more useful than a keyboard or a mouse. Kuo noted that the stylus will probably an optional accessory so will not bump up the base price of the "iPad Pro."
Reportedly, the first version of stylus will be relatively simple in technical terms, however, in the next iterations it might be equipped with additional sensors such as built in gyroscopes or accelerometers and 3D handwriting that would allow users to not just write on the screen but on any other hard surface or possibly even in the air.
"We don't foresee significant sales of an optional stylus in 2015 and forecast unit shipments of 2-2.5 million," Kuo writes. "But we believe that the stylus could improve the experience of users, however, and will likely help Apple develop specific customer groups such as the corporate sector and educational institutions."
Earlier, Kuo had rightly foretold that iPad Air 2 would feature a laminated screen with an anti-reflective coating, a gold color option, A8 processor and a Touch ID fingerprint scanner. He did also tell that iPad Mini with retina display would receive very minor update. He also managed to leak accurate Apple Watch information.
If rumors turns out to be a reality, styluses might get redefined as they would not be just alternatives for fingertips, but would add lot more functionality to the tablets.
