The creator of the Apple Pencil is revolutionizing pickleball training with Electron, the smart machine

A name behind some of Apple's most significant innovations is now venturing into the world of pickleball.

Jonah Harley , the engineer behind the Apple Pencil and key elements like the Force Touch trackpad or the haptic feedback system of Apple devices, has launched an innovative training solution: the smart pickleball machine named Electron , designed by his company Hydrogen Sports . 

What sets this machine apart from all traditional devices, often heavy and bulky, is its modern, connected approach that places the user experience at the heart of the design. Inspired by his years at Apple, Harley applies a design philosophy similar to that which made consumer products successful: simplicity, performance, and user-friendliness. 

A pickleball machine designed as a technological product

The Electron is presented as a revolutionary ball in the world of training machines. Weighing approximately 17 pounds (less than 8 kg), it is extremely portable compared to conventional machines that often exceed 40 kg , a factor that discourages many players from training. 

Hydrogen Sports has chosen to integrate modern components—interchangeable lithium-ion batteries, brushless motors inspired by cutting-edge technologies, and digital controls—to optimize both power and maneuverability. This allows the machine to deliver balls at very high speeds, with precision and consistency, without the user wasting time calibrating the device. 

“Tap to Aim”: a smart and intuitive interface

What truly sets the Electron apart from its competitors is its intelligent, app-controlled system . Thanks to the “Tap to Aim” system, the user directly selects on a digital field view where they want the balls to land, with what spin, and at what speed. 

Jonah Harley explains that the goal was to make training as simple and seamless as using an everyday piece of technology, without the frustrations associated with previous generation machines. Open the app, tap areas of the terrain on the screen, and the machine automatically adjusts to perform the chosen sequence. 

For example, the user can configure a series of shots designed to work on a high dink, a fast drive or a short ball to the net , all with millimeter precision, which offers a multitude of personalized training routines. 

Technical performance in the service of training

The Electron is not only intelligent, it is also powerful. It can generate impressive ball speeds, exceeding 70 mph (approximately 112 km/h), and apply more than 1500 revolutions per minute of topspin or backspin, which surpasses the capabilities of many machines in its class. 

The combination of brushless motors, an advanced control system and app-assisted precision makes the Electron capable of replicating realistic game situations, a crucial advantage for players wishing to work on their reflexes, angles and consistency without a practice partner. 

A machine designed to be actually used

One of the criticisms often leveled at traditional training machines is their cumbersome handling , which ultimately discourages the user. Jonah Harley himself points out that, having previously owned a heavier machine, he ended up not using it often because of the logistics involved. 

With the Electron, the design focuses on a seamless experience : quick battery replacement, intuitive software interfaces, and simple settings mean rapid setup. This encourages players to practice more frequently—even for short sessions—and to unlock the full potential of the device. 

A product positioned between performance and accessibility

Hydrogen Sports has chosen an attractive launch price of around $1,695 , which places the Electron above many competing models in terms of price , while offering advanced performance and features that justify its positioning. 

The balance between power, smart features and price is designed to attract passionate players, coaches and teams looking for a modern training tool without compromising on quality. 

When technology and sport meet

The arrival of a machine as sophisticated as the Electron in the world of pickleball demonstrates how the sport is evolving towards more technological and data-driven training . Where traditional machines often remain stuck in outdated mechanical approaches, Hydrogen Sports delivers an experience that is closer to an intelligent software platform than a simple court accessory . 

With Jonah Harley's journey from Apple to leading innovation at Hydrogen Sports, we see the dawn of a new era for training technologies , where ease of use, performance, and connectivity become central. 

FAQ – Electron: the intelligent pickleball machine

Who is behind the Electron machine?

It was designed by Jonah Harley, a former Apple engineer, inventor of the Apple Pencil and responsible for innovations such as Force Touch and the Taptic Engine. 

What is the Electron machine?

The Electron is a lightweight, portable pickleball training machine controlled via mobile application, capable of varying speed, spin and ball launch zone. 

What technical advantages does the Electron offer?

It offers high speeds (over 70 mph), up to 1500 RPM of spin, precise adjustment via smartphone and portability far superior to conventional machines. 

Is it easy to use?

Yes, one of the Electron's major strengths is its intuitive interface, which allows you to configure routines in just a few taps.  " 

How much does the Electron cost?

The launch price is approximately $1,695 , which is competitive compared to other high-performance machines.