Last Updated on: 27th May 2024, 10:38 pm
Ultimate Guide: Best Apple Pencil Pro Tips and Tricks
Finally got your hands on an Apple Pencil Pro? It’s a powerful tool packed with features like Barrel Roll, Haptic Feedback, and Double-Tap, making it more versatile than ever. To help you maximize its potential, we’ve compiled this guide with the best tips and tricks.
Pairing Your Apple Pencil Pro
The Apple Pencil Pro works exclusively with the M2 iPad Air and M4 iPad Pro models, which launched in May 2024. Here’s how to pair it:
- Ensure your iPad is on and unlocked.
- Attach the Pencil Pro to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad.
- Tap Pair when the prompt appears.
Pairing is seamless, similar to previous Apple Pencil models.
Charging Your Apple Pencil Pro
Charging your Pencil Pro is straightforward:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled (Settings > Bluetooth).
- Attach the Pencil Pro to the magnetic connector on your iPad.
It supports fast charging, giving you 30 minutes of use with just a 15-second charge. Regular use will keep it charged as long as it’s magnetically connected to your iPad.
Using Barrel Roll
The Barrel Roll feature utilizes the gyroscope in the Pencil Pro to change tool orientation by rotating the stylus. This is particularly useful for precision in drawing apps like Notes or Freeform.
- Rotate the Pencil Pro while using a compatible app.
- Hover the Pencil tip near the screen to see the exact angle of contact.
Barrel Roll enhances calligraphy and detailed brushwork, especially with non-circular brushes.
Squeeze Gesture
The Squeeze gesture allows for quick tool access and customization:
- Squeeze the sides of the Pencil Pro to activate the tool palette.
- Customize the gesture in Settings > Apple Pencil > Squeeze.
You can assign functions like switching tools, showing the color palette, or invoking a shortcut.
Double-Tap Functionality
The Double-Tap feature on the Pencil Pro enables quick switching between tools:
- Open Settings > Apple Pencil.
- Select Double-Tap and choose your preferred action.
Options include switching between the current tool and eraser, showing the color palette, or selecting items without touching the screen by hovering and double-tapping.
Haptic Feedback
The Apple Pencil Pro includes a haptic engine that provides feedback during use. You’ll feel a light pulse when using gestures like Squeeze or Double-Tap, adding a tactile element to your interactions.
Tracking with Find My
To track your Apple Pencil Pro:
- Open the Find My app.
- Tap Devices and select Apple Pencil Pro.
Your iPhone or iPad will guide you to its location, showing distance as you approach.
Scribble Feature
With iPadOS, use Scribble to convert handwriting to text:
- Write directly in any text field with your Pencil.
- The iPad will convert your handwriting to typed text.
This feature supports multiple languages and works in various apps, enhancing your productivity.
Editing Text with Scribble
To edit text with Scribble:
- Draw a circle around text to select it.
- Scratch out text to delete it.
- Tap to insert additional text.
You can also join or separate characters with a vertical line.
Corner Swipe Gestures
Use the Pencil Pro for quick actions by swiping diagonally from the bottom corners of your iPad:
- Bottom left: Take a screenshot.
- Bottom right: Open a Quick Note.
Auto-Convert Handwriting in Notes
In the Notes app:
- Tap the Markup icon.
- Select the pen with the “A” to auto-convert handwriting to text.
For existing notes, select the text and choose “Copy as Text” to convert handwriting to typed text.
These tips and tricks will help you get the most out of your Apple Pencil Pro, transforming your iPad experience into a seamless blend of creativity and productivity.