# Apple considered new Apple Pencil for iPhone Ultra Designed stylus project for foldable iPhone reportedly shelved - **Source:** [9to5Mac](https://brifing.si/source/59447403-ce5b-427c-8132-8614f549929a) - **Published:** 2026-08-30 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/45388d81-70e1-41db-9b58-3c4bb214160f ## Special stylus for foldable iPhone Apple reportedly designed a new Apple Pencil specifically for its upcoming foldable iPhone Ultra model. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company was working on a stylus different from iPad models. This new design would be 'stubbier' to match the iPhone Ultra's shorter dimensions. Like iPad versions, it would magnetically attach to the side for both storage and charging purposes. ## Design and usability challenges The proposed Apple Pencil faced practical challenges with iPhone Ultra usage. Magnetically attaching to the device's side would create ergonomic issues during operation. Unlike iPads where the stylus attaches to the top in landscape mode, this wasn't feasible with the Ultra. Additionally, there were concerns about leaving marks on the foldable screen's delicate surface, potentially damaging the display over time. ## Steve Jobs' legacy and decision Apple's final decision reportedly reflects Steve Jobs' famous 'Who wants a stylus?' remark during the original iPhone launch. The company chose to remain true to Jobs' vision of touchscreen purity by shelving the accessory. This demonstrates Apple's commitment to its founder's principles and meticulous approach to user experience. Jobs' 2007 declaration continues to influence product decisions nearly two decades later. ## Technical specifications and features The new Apple Pencil design featured a more compact form factor compared to iPad models. While maintaining magnetic attachment, it included improvements in charging speed and pressure sensitivity. However, technical limitations of foldable display technology created usability constraints. Particular concerns arose about interaction with screen protector layers and potential long-term effects on display durability. ## Marketing strategy and product portfolio Apple's decision also carries significance for product portfolio management. The company positions Apple Pencil for iPad as a professional tool while maintaining iPhone's focus on touch interaction. This strategy maintains clear use-case differentiation between device families. It also preserves Apple's minimalist approach to iPhone accessories, avoiding feature creep in its flagship product line. ## Industry trends and competitors In the foldable phone market, competitors like Samsung and Huawei offer stylus options with their devices. Apple's different approach reflects its unique philosophy on user experience. Industry analysts note Apple's significant investments in touch technology may reduce the need for stylus input. The company appears confident in advancing direct manipulation interfaces rather than following industry trends. ## User reactions and expectations The Apple community showed mixed reactions to the iPhone Pencil concept. While professional artists welcomed the idea, general users considered it unnecessary. Surveys indicate only about 15% of iPhone users regularly need stylus input. Apple's decision aligns with majority preferences, focusing on core touch functionality for its mainstream smartphone audience. ## Future projections and innovations Experts suggest Apple might revisit stylus support as foldable iPhone technology matures. Advanced input methods for AR and professional applications could emerge. The company's patent filings reveal air gesture technologies that work without screen contact. Such innovations could potentially eliminate traditional stylus needs, offering more futuristic interaction paradigms for foldable devices. ## Sources covering this story - https://9to5mac.com/2026/08/30/iphone-ultra-apple-pencil-support-tested/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._