The Apple Pencil (USB-C) received its first ever firmware update on Tuesday since initially launching on the first day of this November.
The newest firmware update, first spotted and shared by @Aaaronp613 on X (formerly Twitter), carries the version of 35347.35347.16 and the build number of 10M5164.
Much like updates to Apple’s AirPods and AirPods Pro headphones, the company doesn’t offer any particular insight into what’s new in the latest Apple accessory firmware, but it can be presumed that it includes bug fixes and performance improvements.
Apple also appears to be referring to the Apple Pencil (USB-C) as the “Apple Pencil Gen 3,” which is a particularly interesting moniker given the accessory’s status as a budget alternative to the more prestigious Apple Pencil 2. As a result, Apple refers to the firmware as “Apple Pencil Gen 3 Firmware.”
It’s worth noting that users can’t manually jump-start the firmware update process on their own. Instead, the Apple Pencil (USB-C) updates its firmware on its own while connected to a compatible iPad or iPad Pro that is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Users of other Apple Pencil models, including the original Apple Pencil and the Apple Pencil 2, are exempt from today’s new firmware update, as it only appears to be intended for the new Apple Pencil (USB-C).
The Apple Pencil (USB-C) is compatible with the following iPad and iPad Pro models:
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd, & 4th generation)
- iPad Air (4th & 5th generation)
- iPad mini (6th generation)
- iPad (10th generation)
For more information about the Apple Pencil (USB-C), check out our tech specs roundup post. You may also find our comparison post against two popular third-party stylus alternatives to be an interesting read.
Has your Apple Pencil (USB-C) installed the latest firmware update yet? Let us know in the comments section down below.