Finally, a sensible way to store and charge Apple Pencil

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The ProBack stores and charges the Apple Pencil and even has a place for the pencil cap.
The ProBack stores and charges the Apple Pencil and even has a place for the pencil cap.
Photo: Studio Tika Innovation

For all the intricate thought that went into the design of the Apple Pencil, a safe and elegant way to store and charge it with the iPad Pro was an obvious detail seemingly overlooked.

An accessories startup has produced a smart case for the iPad Pro that conveniently docks and charges the pencil along an edge.

The ProBack cover by Studio Tika Innovation would eliminate having the Apple Pencil stick straight out while plugged into the Lighting port.

The cover snaps on the back plate of an iPad pro without interfering with the fit of The Apple smart cover/keyboard. Tucked along one edge is a charging cradle for the pencil and that also includes a magnetic holder for the pencil cap.

The ProBack is available for pre-order on Kickstarter beginning at $29 for early backers. If Tika can raise $25,000 over the next 30 days, the company says production is lined up and deliveries could begin in June.

The ProBack, which will eventually retail for $49, is only available for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro for now.

ProBack
Apple Pencil discreetly gets the juice and protection along one edge.
Photo: Studio Tika Innovation

Critics initially thought the late Steve Jobs would be rolling in his grave over an Apple Pencil, his disdain for styluses is well documented. But the Apple Pencil seems to be a hit, especially with artists and designers who found it surprisingly responsive.

How it gets stored and charged though seems to fly against Apple’s otherwise practical approach to design.

There are a number of third party pencil chargers on the market and cases that safely secure the pencil but few if any products offer both without compromising the thin profile of the iPad Pro. Then there is the conundrum of what to do with the cap while charging or drawing with the pencil.

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