Apple Pencil 1st Generation: My Discontinuation Call
Updated September 2026: in 2022 I predicted Apple would discontinue the first-generation Apple Pencil soon, because it had not been updated in years and seemed to be supported only by the 9th-generation iPad, while iPads were moving to USB-C. I have rewritten it to show what happened and how to pick the right Pencil.
The first-generation Apple Pencil had been on sale for years without new features. I expected Apple to discontinue it. My reasoning was that the only current iPad it supported was the 9th generation, so making it for one product would not be worth the cost, and that iPads were all moving to USB-C, which would leave its Lightning connector behind.
Was the first-generation Pencil discontinued in 2022?
No. When Apple launched the 10th-generation iPad with USB-C in October 2022, it supported the first-generation Pencil through a USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter, and Apple began including that adapter with the Pencil. It stayed on sale well beyond my prediction.
Was I right about USB-C?
Yes. In 2023 Apple introduced an Apple Pencil with a USB-C port, and the iPad range continued its move to USB-C.
Which iPads work with the first-generation Pencil?
More than I suggested. Besides the 9th generation, several older iPads support it, including earlier standard iPads, some iPad mini and iPad Air models, and early iPad Pro models. Apple lists compatibility on its website, and that is the place to check.
How do you choose the right Apple Pencil?
- Start with your iPad model, found in Settings, General, About.
- Check Apple's compatibility list for that model.
- Consider pressure sensitivity, which matters for drawing but less for notes.
- Check charging: some Pencils charge magnetically, others by cable or adapter.
Is a third-party stylus good enough?
For note-taking and navigation, many are fine and cheaper. For drawing, Apple's Pencils usually offer better pressure and palm rejection.
What does this say about predicting Apple?
Apple often keeps older accessories alive with adapters to support older and budget devices. Discontinuation usually comes later than logic suggests.