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How to get the most out of your Apple Pencil

Person using an Apple Pencil to draw an image of a rose on an iPad

If you’re an iPad user, you’ve probably heard about the Apple Pencil, and may have even considered purchasing one. Although using your finger to navigate your iPad works well for most things, there are times when having such a tool can make a huge difference in your ability to do certain tasks effectively on your iPad. But did you know that there is a lot more to your Apple Pencil than the ability to simply draw or take notes?

With such a versatile and important tool, it's important to keep it protected. Mulberry Unlimited can cover all of your Apple products and accessories under the same product protection plan for less than your monthly Apple TV+ subscription. You'll get unlimited coverage, unlimited claims, and no deductibles or hidden fees.

Install the Mulberry browser extension to learn more, and to view the best product protection plans for all your purchases.

What are tips for getting the most of of the Apple Pencil?

If you’re interested in learning how to get the most out of your Apple Pencil, try out some of these tips and tricks:

Know all the ways to charge

Although you’re probably already familiar with the classic way to charge your Apple Pencil (connecting it to the lightning adaptor within the Apple Pencil’s case), you might not realize that there are multiple ways to charge, several of which are actually even more efficient.

For first generation Apple Pencils, you can simply remove the cap on the back of the pencil and plug it into the lightning port on your iPad for a quick charge. If you have a second generation Apple Pencil, simply attach it to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad.

Replace the Pencil’s tip

Apple Pencil tips gradually wear out with time and use. You’ll know it’s time to replace your Apple Pencil’s tip when it no longer glides smoothly across the screen as you use it. Luckily, Apple Pencil tip replacement is easy. Simply turn the tip that’s currently on your Apple Pencil counterclockwise to unscrew it. Then, lift it off and replace it with the new tip, which you’ll turn clockwise to securely attach.

Remember, for best results you should aim to replace your Apple Pencil’s tip at least once per quarter if you’re using it consistently. A worn out Apple Pencil tip is not only difficult to use, but it can even damage your iPad’s screen.

Draw straight lines

Many people use their Apple Pencil for drawing or note-taking, both of which sometimes requires the need to create straight lines. While this can be a difficult task when you’re trying to freehand it, luckily, the iPad has a built-in ruler to help you draw perfect straight lines.

To use the ruler from within the Notes app, simply select it from the bottom right of the toolkit, then place it wherever you would like to draw a straight line. It’s as simple as that!

Take advantage of the double tap

If you have a second generation Apple Pencil, be sure to take advantage of the extra functionality that comes with it. One example is the double tap gesture. Second generation Apple Pencil users can assign the double tap to customizable shortcuts, such as displaying the color palette, switching between the pencil and the eraser features, and much more.

Choose the right Pencil for you

If you’ve spent any time shopping for an Apple Pencil, you’ve probably already realized that the Apple Pencil 2 compatibility is different from the first generation Apple Pencil. This means that it’s important to choose the Apple Pencil that works with the iPad that you have.

Wondering which Apple Pencil will work with your iPad? Because the first generation Apple Pencil uses a lightning port to charge, iPad versions that have a lightning port are likely to be compatible with the first generation Apple Pencil. The second generation Apple Pencil does not use a lightning port to charge, however, so it isn’t compatible with older iPad models that have a physical connector.

Invest in product protection

Finally, don’t forget to invest in product protection for your Apple Pencil. At $129, an Apple Pencil is an expensive accessory, so it’s important to be prepared in the event that it breaks or gets damaged. Although Apple offers AppleCare on many of its items, it can be expensive and doesn't provide the breadth of coverage necessary for a device you might use every day.

With an extended warranty plan, you won’t have to pay for an expensive replacement–just file a quick claim! It’s one of the best ways to get the most out of your Apple Pencil.

Interested in purchasing product protection for your Apple Pencil, but not sure where to start? Be sure to install the free Mulberry browser extension. You’ll be able to see product protection plans available to you as you’re shopping!

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Kim Miller

About the author

Kim Miller is the Head of Marketing at Mulberry. She is passionate about building products and brands that make consumers happy, save them money and make their lives easier. Have an innovative idea for Mulberry you'd like to share? Give her a shout! She'd love to chat about anything from fintech and UX to gardening and antiquing.

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