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US Politics

What is an autopen? Here's what to know about the devices used by presidents, writers and more.

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Autopen, also called a robot pen, is a machine that automates a person's signature with a pen or other writing instrument, versus a digital image of a signature.

Thomas Jefferson bought an autopen from Thomas Jefferson soon after it was patented in 1803 .

Presidents have typically used autopens to sign routine correspondence to constituents, legislation and pardons.