Why is My Apple Pencil Not Connecting?

If the Apple Pencil is not connecting to your iPad, then the Bluetooth of your device may be turned off. Turn on the Bluetooth and pair the Apple Pencil. Secondly, the Apple Pencil may have not been charged, try charging the Pencil and pairing it.

Apple has released three different versions of Apple Pencils with distinct features.

• Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
• Apple Pencil USB-C
• Apple Pencil 1st Generation

All versions of Apple Pencils connect with compatible devices differently.

In this guide, I will be covering how to connect different types of Apple Pencil with iPads, and how to fix issues while connecting them.

Why is My Apple Pencil Not Connecting?

There are various reasons why Apple Pencil is not connecting:

• Apple Pencil is not compatible with the iPad
• Apple Pencil is not paired properly
• Apple Pencil has no charge
• Apple Pencil nib is not tightened
• The connecting port is damaged

Apple Pencils based on their generations have different compatibility. The following section will list the Apple iPads compatible with all Apple Pencil versions.

Apple Pencil 2nd Generation Compatibility

The Apple Pencil 2nd Generation comes with a wireless pairing and charging setup and has a matte white finish. It is not entirely round, which makes it easy and comfortable to hold.

The iPad devices compatible with this Apple Pencil are:

Apple Pencil USB-C Compatibility

The Apple Pencil USB-C comes with a type-C pairing and charging setup and has a matte white finish. It is not entirely round. It is important to note that this Apple Pencil does not support pressure sensitivity.

A list of iPads compatible with Apple Pencil USB-C is below:

Apple Pencil 1st Generation Compatibility

The Apple Pencil 1st Generation comes with a lightning pairing and charging setup and has a smooth white finish. It is entirely round, which makes it a bit slippery and uncomfortable to hold.

iPads that are compatible with this generation of Apple Pencil are listed below:

Connecting Apple Pencil 2nd Generation

The 2nd generation Apple Pencil wirelessly pairs, simply attach the flat side of the pencil at the top of the iPad. It will magnetically connect with the iPad and start charging.

If you are unable to connect your Apple Pencil, then, turn on the Bluetooth; go to Settings>Bluetooth>Turn On.

If you are trying to connect the Apple Pencil previously connected with another device, then you need to sync the Apple Pencil again by following the steps given above.

If you have restarted the device, then you also need to re-sync the Apple Pencil with the above-mentioned method.

Connecting Apple Pencil (USB-C)

You need a USB type C cable that comes with a compatible iPad.

• Turn on Bluetooth.
• Slide open the cap of the Apple Pencil and insert one side into the type-C connector other with the iPad.
• A prompt will appear on the screen saying Apple Pencil and then show the battery percentage

After connecting it with your iPad you can disconnect the cable. Note that the Apple Pencil will be disconnected if you restart the iPad, turn off the Bluetooth, or pair the Apple Pencil with another iPad.

Connecting Apple Pencil 1st Generation

To connect the 1st Generation Apple Pencil to the compatible iPads.

• Turn on Bluetooth.
• Remove the cap.
• Plug the lighting connector side of the Apple Pencil into your iPad.
• A prompt will appear saying Bluetooth Pairing Request, tap on Pair.

Once paired you can unplug the Apple Pencil from the iPad.

It will remain connected to your iPad unless you restart your iPad or turn on Air Plane mode.

Charging Apple Pencil

Low or no charging can be another cause why the Apple Pencil is not connected to the iPad.

Charging Apple Pencil (2nd Generation): To charge the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil, place its flat side on the iPad charging connector under the volume buttons. It will magnetically connect with the iPad charging port. To see the battery percentage, you must enable Bluetooth, however, the Apple Pencil will be charged even if the Bluetooth is disabled.

Charging Apple Pencil (USB-C): To charge the Apple Pencil (USB-C), slide the cap and plug the USB type C cable into the Apple Pencil and iPad. Note that, it can also be charged by using a type C adapter.

Charging Apple Pencil (1st Generation): To charge the 1st Generation Apple Pencil plug its lightning connector into the compatible iPad. It can be charged using any charger that supports a USB and is compatible with its charging port. However, it is recommended to use the charger that comes with Apple devices for optimal charging performance and to ensure that the device is charged safely. Using a charger that is not compatible with the device or its charging specifications may result in reduced charging speed or damage to the device. At least charge it for 15 minutes.

Tightly Screw the Apple Pencil Nib

In some cases, the Apple pencil is connected to the iPad, but it does not work. This is because the Apple Pencil replacement nib is not tightly screwed with the pencil.

Other Troubleshooting Tips

If the above-mentioned processes do not solve the issue, then, try to unpair the device and pair it again. The procedure for unpairing the Apple Pencil is given below:

• Ensure that the Bluetooth is enabled
• See the List of paired devices and find the Apple Pencil
• Tap on the i icon, and the Forget this Device
• To pair it again using the steps in the above section

Or, simply restart the iPad and again pair the Apple Pencil.

In some rare cases, a damaged charging port can be a cause of the Apple Pencil not pairing with the iPad.

If the above-mentioned tips do not work, it is better to connect with Apple through the Apple Support Page. Or download the Apple Support app.

Conclusion

Apple Pencil connectivity depends upon iPad compatibility, charging level, Bluetooth, and pairing port. If the Apple Pencil is not connecting then first check the device compatibility as Apple Pencil 1, 2, and USB-C support different iPads. Then check the Bluetooth, Apple Pencils are paired with iPad through Bluetooth, therefore it has to be enabled. If the Apple Pencil is not charged, it will not be able to pair with the iPad. Charge it and then try connecting it to the iPad. In some cases, removing Apple Pencil from the paired devices and then pairing it again solves the problem.