Your Apple Pencil could one day provide vibrational feedback as you draw.
A recently published Apple patent shows how a next-gen Apple Pencil could use haptic feedback, with the use of magnetic fields physically affecting the stylus while it is actively being used to draw on an iPad or iPad Pro, using the force to vibrate the implement.
Such a feature could be powered by a motor or actuator of some form that would vibrate the stylus, as seen in some video game controllers.
Per the patent, entitled “Stylus with external magnetic influence,” Apple has suggested that such feedback could be achieved by creating magnetic fields that can impart a force on the tool. The patent features a magnetic component embedded inside the stylus, as per usual with the Apple Pencil. The stylus could react to magnetic fields which would move the stylus magnet, which would then move the attached stylus.
The magnetic component could be housed in a spring, which would allow the magnet to be influenced and indirectly affect the stylus. For instances such as drawing, where full control over a stylus’ position is needed, this would allow for haptic feedback without majorly affecting the nib’s movement.
Apple has suggested that there could be a cover that would include a conductive could, as well as a magnetic shunt positioned under the conductive could to alter its properties. Circuitry could be used to energize the coil to create the magnetic field, which affects the stylus.
As different coils are activated, the stylus could be pushed or pulled in different directions. An alternating magnetic field could provide a vibration effect.
It’s unknown as to exactly when this could be implemented, but it makes for an interesting idea.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and the United States Patent and Trademark Office