A report acquired by website AppleInsider reveals that Apple will likely be launching the rumored 12.9-inch iPad Pro with a stylus.
KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has a strong track record in his predictions for Apple's plans for future products, revealed that Apple has filed several patents related to a stylus. Kuo's research made him believe that Apple will be releasing a stylus within the second quarter of 2015 that will complement the iPad Pro.
"Given that it's more precise than a person's fingers, a stylus can be more convenient to use than the combination of keyboard and mouse in some cases," wrote Kuo, adding that the usage of a stylus will lead to improvements in the overall user experience for the rumored iPad Pro.
Kuo, however, did not cite particular sources for the stylus rumor apart from the filed patent applications of Apple. This is a deviation from Kuo's previous reports, as the analyst has close ties with the supply chain companies working with Apple.
Kuo thinks that most iPad users will not initially feel the need for a stylus, leading to Apple's decision to release the product as an optional accessory rather than being included in the purchase of the 12.9-inch iPad. In addition, including the stylus in a bundle with the iPad Pro may lead to high selling prices that consumers may not afford.
The stylus, Kuo expects, will not include many features in its first release, such as an accelerometer and gyroscope. Kuo believes that Apple will be gradually adding features to the device, with one possible future feature expected to be 3D handwriting, which allows a user to write on other surfaces and in the air.
Kuo also wrote that the expected charging method for the stylus is through the Lightning connector, as opposed to wireless charging that could drive up costs.
The analyst believes that the release of an Apple stylus will only slightly boost sales for the iPad. The stylus, however, will lead to the development of a new range of applications as the device will improve the user experience for customers groups such as educational institutions and enterprises.
Only a few details have leaked about the upcoming iPad, with its rumored 12.9-inch screen also subject to doubt. Apple is also said to be considering the option of a smaller, 12.2-inch screen.
A previous prediction by Kuo said that the iPad Pro will be featuring a new version of the iOS that will be able to realize the full potential of the larger screen of the device, with possible functions including split-screen multitask options.
