Apple this week has announced a new cheaper Apple Pencil which is compatible with all iPad models that have a USB-C port, so the iPad mini, current iPad Air models, 10th generation iPad and the latest iPad Pro models too. Apple now has three Apple Pencil models on sale, this new entry level model with hidden USB-C port, priced at £79 in the UK and $79 in the US, the 1st generation Apple Pencil with Lightning port which is priced at £109 in the UK and £99 in the US and the 2nd generation Apple Pencil at £139 in the UK and $129 in the US.

When the new 10th generation iPad was revealed, it moved from using the Lightning port to to USB-C but up until now, Apple never offered a pencil that would charge using USB-C for that specific iPad. Apple offered customers the 1st generation Apple Pencil with Lightning port with a USB-C to Lightning adaptor, at an extra charge.

The 10th generation iPad has magnets in the side of the iPad, like the iPad Air and iPad Pro but it won’t charge it. Instead, once placed on the side the pencil will go into a sleep state to save battery life. The new Apple Pencil lacks free engraving, double-tap to change tools and pressure sensitivity.

The new USB-C Apple Pencil launches early next month.