Apple Tested Custom Apple Pencil for Foldable iPhone

Apple has internally prototyped and tested a custom Apple Pencil for its upcoming foldable iPhone, according to Mark Gurman. The accessory was designed specifically for the folding handset, though Gurman says he would be surprised if Apple launches it alongside the device next month.



The prototype was shorter than existing Apple Pencil models, allowing it to better match the height of the foldable iPhone when closed. It was also designed to magnetically attach to the side of the phone for storage and wireless charging, similar to the existing Apple Pencil.


Bringing a stylus to the iPhone would represent a notable shift from Steve Jobs' famous 2007 remark that "nobody wants a stylus" during the original iPhone introduction. Apple later embraced stylus input with the introduction of Apple Pencil for iPad, but adapting the accessory for a foldable iPhone presented new engineering challenges.

The prototype also raised practical concerns. Apple worried that using a stylus on the more delicate inner display could leave visible marks. Storing the Pencil also became awkward when the phone was unfolded and the accessory wasn't being used.

Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 lineup at its September event. Previous reports have indicated the device will sit above the Pro Max as Apple's most expensive smartphone, but Gurman does not expect the custom Apple Pencil prototype to debut with the first-generation model.