Which Are The Best Apps For Apple Pencil?
Although many were skeptical at the introduction of the Apple Pencil, it is one of the best iPad accessories on the market. Its simple design belies its complex functions. The Apple Pencil’s function goes above and beyond other stylus pens. It can transform how you use your iPad Pro 11 and elevate the functionality and user experience.
1. Apple Notes
You don’t need to look to third-party apps to experience the Apple Pencil’s multiple functions. Just open a new page in the Notes app to try it out. Draw, scribble, or sketch. Look for the pencil icon at the bottom and tap it for the toolbar. You can choose between a marker or pen tip and many colors to write in. Or you can take advantage of the lasso function that moves around anything on a note page. Draw around the part you want and shift that section to any part of the page. The Apple Pencil gives instant access to the Notes app even when the iPad is locked. Tap the iPad's locked screen with the Apple Pencil, and Notes will allow you to open a new document or access the latest one.
2. Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop is a great editing app loved by beginners and professionals. It is one of the most powerful yet easy-to-use apps that convert images and media into high-quality material. The Apple Pencil gives you ultra-precision when using it on an iPad Pro 11. The Pencil replaces your finger perfectly. It is pressure-sensitive and works in real-time – there is no lag while doing your work. The Apple Pencil also transforms into one of the hundred brushes available on the app. Editing and adding nuances to your images becomes a dream.
3. Procreate
Procreate is one of the top creative apps for those who love to doodle or create a masterpiece. This app has to be the one most synonymous with using an Apple Pencil. The Apple Pencil is the perfect tool to use the hundreds of built-in brushes, editing tools, multi-layered system, and intuitive interface.
4. Microsoft Whiteboard
Although not an Apple app, you can use Microsoft Whiteboard on iPads with an iOS 9. The app is quite basic but is a great tool to use when collaborating remotely. You can open different whiteboards and use them for other projects. You can share a whiteboard with a group of people and edit and make notes in real-time. So, for example, you can use it in an online meeting and share it with those participating. Use the Apple Pencil to write, take down notes, edit or make a quick sketch.
5. GoodNotes 5
GoodNotes was once the simpler version of the Notes app. However, the developers expanded the app’s features, converting the flip page function to endless vertical scrolling, for example. You can use the Apple Pencil instead of the online keyboard. Write down notes in your handwriting – don’t worry too much about it being hard to read. GoodNotes 5 has a fantastic writing-to-text function. Similarly, the app converts your hand-drawn shapes into perfect geometrical ones with the Apple Pencil. A simple double tap transforms the Apple Pencil into an eraser.
6. Blek
Unlike the other apps listed here, Blek does not involve notetaking or creating art but a game. Its simplicity is genius. You need to link all the colored circles on the screen with a continuous line while avoiding the black holes. This game boosts your imagination and is perfect for the Apple Pencil. It will give you the necessary precision and freedom to unleash your creativity.
Related Reading: Which Is Better: Apple Pencil or Apple Smart Folio Keyboard?
Apple Pencil Tips and Tricks
Take a Screenshot on the Lock Screen
The iPad already allows you to take a screenshot without unlocking it. However, the Apple Pencil also has this function. Just grab the Pencil and place the tip on the corner of the locked screen. Then drag it to the center, activating the screenshot function.
Scribble Away
The Apple Pencil literally transforms your scribbles into text. This function allows you to scribble on the iPad with the Apple Pencil, including the search bar on Safari, instead of using the keyboard. The iPad will then convert it into text. To activate the scribble function, go to Settings and find Apple Pencil. Then make sure that the Scribble function is enabled.
Keep Your Apple Pencil Safe
It's easy to lose or damage the Apple Pencil, especially if it is running around in your bag with heavy and sharp objects such as your keys. One of the best ways to keep it safe is to slip it into your iPad case. The Zugu iPad Pro 11 inch case has an inbuilt pocket that keeps your Apple Pencil safe and snug. You can also wirelessly charge the Pencil on the case, which offers major drop protection for your iPad against a five-foot fall on concrete.
Trace Drawings
You can use the Apple Pencil to trace drawings on your iPad Pro 11. All you need to do is slip the picture on the iPad's screen and trace over it. The Apple Pencil's precise and accurate tip will do the rest. Remember that the paper must not be too thick, or it will not work.