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Microsoft Office update adds Apple Pencil support for iPad Pro

Microsoft has updated its Office suite for iPad and iPad Pro in order to unlock new inking tools, be it with a finger or the fancy new Apple Pencil.

The inking tools, which have been available in Office for Windows since 2007, are now available on iOS tablets.

The new Draw tab makes it easy to switch between typing and drawing, while there’s also an Instant Inking feature which senses the approach of an active pen like the Apple Pencil.

Related: iPad Air 3

That allows iPad Pro users to start inking without needing to select the feature.

Meanwhile, users will be able to Ink to Shape, which means hand-drawn shapes will be recognised and coverted into neater designs. There’s also the ability to create diagrams and process flows. 

Sketch two quick circles for an easy Venn diagram or draw a process flow of squares and arrows in just a matter of moments,” Microsoft explains in a blog post.

See also: 6 features that’ll make you want an iPad Pro

The new features work across Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote for iPad and iPad Pro.

Bringing new inking abilities into play will particularly benefit iPad Pro users who’ve also adopted the Apple Pencil.

Could this newfound functionality push you towards Apple’s professionally-slanted slate? Share your thoughts below.

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