On July 9, Elecom announced the "Stylus 2Way," a 2-in-1 pen co-developed with pen maker Zebra — the first collaboration between the two companies[1][2]. Its defining feature is a single tip that works as a gel-ink ballpoint on paper and as a stylus on an iPad without leaving ink on the screen. Zebra will release the pen on July 31, with Elecom versions to follow around autumn 2026. Here is a closer look at this ambitious product, reportedly about 5 years in the making, that bridges stationery and gadgets.
Move Seamlessly Between Paper and iPad with the Same Tip
The Stylus 2Way is a newly developed 2-way stylus pen that writes on both paper and iPad without any tip switching[1]. On paper, it writes with black gel ink using a 0.5mm ball, while a purpose-built combination of tip and ink keeps ink from coming out on the iPad screen[3].
No pairing or mode switching is required — you can jot a note on paper and operate the iPad screen right after[1]. It also supports palm rejection, so resting your hand on the screen will not cause unintended input, letting you write on the display just as you would on paper[3]. Zebra envisions use in settings where analog and digital coexist: brainstorming in meetings, combining tablet study with paper notes, and workplaces that handle electronic medical charts or paper blueprints[3]. Switching pens back and forth is a subtle but real annoyance, so handling it all with one pen is a welcome change.
About 5 Years in Development, with a Knock Mechanism That Doubles as the Power Switch
The product combines Zebra's long-cultivated expertise in writing instruments with the know-how Elecom has built through its touch pen development. The project — spanning mechanism and circuit design, manufacturing, verification, and quality control — reportedly took about 5 years[1][2].
To preserve the usability of a ballpoint pen, the Stylus 2Way uses a retractable knock-type design that keeps the tip concealed. The clip-mounted knock both extends and retracts the tip and turns the power on and off[1][3]. A built-in magnet lets the pen attach to the side of compatible iPads for carrying[3].
Charging is via the included USB Type-C cable: a full charge of about 30 minutes provides roughly 7 hours of continuous operation, and an auto-sleep function kicks in after about 10 minutes of inactivity. The body measures approximately 160mm long and 9.5mm in diameter and weighs about 16g — close to an ordinary ballpoint pen. The ink cartridge can be replaced with sold-separately refills (BS-0.5 core, black, 2-pack, model P-RBS5-BK2)[3].
Check iPad Compatibility — a Screen Protector Is Required
One thing to note is iPad compatibility. According to Zebra's published compatibility list (as of July 1, 2026), the pen writes on the iPad (7th to 10th generation and A16), iPad mini (5th and 6th generation and A17 Pro), and 11-inch iPad Pro (2nd generation through M5, standard glass models). Meanwhile, the 13-inch iPad Pro and all generations of the iPad Air are unsupported, as are models with Nano-texture glass[3].
In addition, use assumes a screen protector film is applied to prevent ink adhesion and screen scratches. Elecom's high-transparency or high-gloss glass films (model numbers containing "FLGG") are recommended, and the recommended writing angle is 60 to 80 degrees[3]. These conditions stem from the design that puts an actual ballpoint tip on the screen, so checking your iPad and screen protector before purchase is advisable.
Release Timing and Lineup
Zebra goes first: on July 31, the pen launches in 2 barrel colors, white (model P-S2W-APLBP01-W) and black (model P-S2W-APLBP01-BK)[2][3]. Elecom plans to release its own versions around autumn 2026 under model numbers P-TPACSTAPZ01BK (black) and P-TPACSTAPZ01WH (white), both at open pricing. The Elecom versions will be sold at the Elecom Direct Shop and consumer electronics retailers nationwide, with product details to be announced in an Elecom news release in late August[1][2].
Summary
The Stylus 2Way is the first co-developed pen from Elecom and Zebra, writing on both paper and iPad with the same tip. Its no-pairing, no-switching design and practical specs — 7 hours of operation from a 30-minute charge — stand out. While supported iPads are limited and a screen protector is mandatory, it looks like a long-awaited tool for anyone who moves between paper notes and an iPad. The first chance to get one comes with Zebra's release on July 31.
Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001464.000026881.html
