When Apple first launched the Pencil back in 2015 it was exclusively for the iPad Pro ($765.46 at Amazon) . Two years later and the sixth-generation iPad could use it. Now it looks as though the next iPhone may ship with Apple Pencil support.
As 9to5Mac reports, market intelligence company TrendForce believes that Apple intends to both increase the appeal and the price of the next iPhone by adding new features and support. Part of that support will include compatibility with Apple Pencil ($94.99 at Amazon) , but only on the OLED models.
The Pencil is well suited to drawing on the larger displays of the iPad ($329.00 at Amazon) and iPad Pro, and while drawing will still be possible on the new iPhones, it's more likely the Pencil is seen as a way to take handwritten notes. Alternatively, it's a different method of interaction with the handset that removes the need to tap the screen directly.
It's thought that Apple intends to offer a 6.5-inch and 5.8-inch OLED iPhone this year with a 6.1-inch LCD model also available for those on a tighter budget. That means two new models potentially shipping with Apple Pencil support. The knock-on effect being a significant increase in Pencil sales is possible, and I'm sure Apple is also hoping it will encourage more iPad sales so you can take better advantage of owning a Pencil.
TrendForce is also making a few more predictions about the 2018 iPhone refresh. First of all, we should expect 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options on the OLED models while the LCD model will be limited to 64GB and 256GB options. As for price, the LCD model should be upwards of $699, but the OLED models will start at $899 or $949. Considering that price will be for the 5.8-inch iPhone, the 6.5-inch is clearly going to be well above the $1,000 Apple wanted for the iPhone X. Clearly the company thinks consumers are willing to spend that much on a smartphone.
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