Apple could design the next generation stylus, with or without the iPad Pro

“Expanded Function Touch Sensor Implement”: this is the title of Apple’s latest new patent, which seems to indicate Apple’s interest in creating a stylus accessory with advanced capabilities.

Rumors in regard to Apple potentially working on a stylus, have been circulating for some time, supported by notable sources, including KGI Securities Min-Chi Kuo, and evidence of Apple’s renewed focus on pressure sensitive touchscreen displays, based on silver nano-wires (AgNW) technology, which also allows for flexible displays.

Within the scope of the current patent, filed only a few days ago, Apple may be planning to introduce a number of sensors in the device that would allow it to perform many functions natively, such as detecting pressure, for instance when using digital painting applications.

The ability to detect spatial position for 3D handwriting is also a possibility. 3D handwriting applications could include virtual whiteboards, or other tools for collaborative presentation.

A feature defined as a “grip sensor” is also being described by the patent, as the ability to detect the pressure exerted by the user when gripping the stylus. The latter seems to suggest a type of sensor able to prevent, or measure, strain, while using the stylus, either to protect the stylus itself, or more likely, as a way to prevent strain to the user’s own hand.

Skepticism has surrounded an Apple-designed stylus, often quoting Steve Jobs’ original stance on stylus-like accessories, from 2010:

“It's like we said on the iPad, if you see a stylus, they blew it. In multitasking, if you see a task manager... they blew it. Users shouldn't ever have to think about it.”.

The quote, refers to the question “How do you close applications when multitasking?” by the press at the unveiling of the iPhone OS 4. Since then, public opinion around Apple, has been largely dismissive of any claims that Apple would ever make a stylus. However, rumors of the opposite, have been on the rise, with a strong chance that Apple might just surprise fans and consumers close to the brand, with a completely new iPad accessory(Pro or otherwise), or even a completely new product of its own, which could function with existing Apple devices.