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Apple Pencil 2 release date, specs rumors: stylus with magnetic system touted to arrive in March

A promotional image for the current Apple Pencil. | Apple

It seems that aside from the new iPad tablets, a second-generation Apple Pencil is also slated to arrive in the spring — if the latest reports are to be believed.

According to a recent report originating from China, the Apple Pencil 2 will have a new magnetic system that will allow it to attach to the iPad Pro without needing additional support or any type of holster. This will give iPad Pro users an easier way of storing the stylus when not in use.

Furthermore, the report mentioned that the Apple Pencil 2 could come standard with a clip that would allow users to hang the stylus from one's pocket or bag, as well as prevent it from rolling away when on flat surfaces like one's desk.

Another report citing sources from Apple's supply chain echoed the same sentiments. It was said that Apple will have a press event in March and that the Apple Pencil 2 will be among the new devices unveiled. When asked about its new features, the source mentioned that it will be "compatible with a large number of applications."

Back in August 2016, Bloomberg revealed that Apple had been considering "allowing users to annotate objects in many applications across the whole operating system, including in Mail, the Safari web browser, and iMessage." With this, the stylus' functionality is said to become similar to the one Samsung has for its Note phablets. However, in this article, the upgraded features were touted to come via software update rather than in the form of the Apple Pencil 2.

Aside from being used in a wider variety of applications, rumors also suggest that the new Apple Pencil could be used across various Apple devices like the iPhone 7 and the new MacBook Pro.

Meanwhile, the latest reports haven't mentioned if the Apple Pencil 2 will have wireless charging capabilities. Although, it's possible that Apple could utilize the Smart Connector for this purpose.

Unfortunately, Apple isn't expected to comment on this recent speculation so information about the Apple Pencil 2 should be taken with a grain of salt.