The Apple Pencil is one of the most powerful accessories for your iPad and it can change your tablet into an incredibly versatile device for drawing, note taking and more. Many users face issues when trying to connect their Apple Pencil to their iPad.
If you are trying to figure out how to connect Apple Pencil to iPad, this guide will help you through the entire process. In this post you can explore everything you need to know about pairing your Apple Pencil with your iPad, common issues and solutions to ensure your Apple Pencil works perfectly with your device.
Before You Begin – Key Checks
Here you can see some important steps on how to connect Apple Pencil to iPad:
1. Update your iPad Software
First you have to ensure your iPad is running the latest version of iOS. Outdated software can sometimes cause connectivity issues with your Apple Pencil.
- How to update iPad
Go to iPad Settings > General > Software Update option.
If there is an update available, you have to download and install it.
2. Check Your Apple Pencil Model
There are two different generations of Apple Pencil and they are compatible with different iPad models. Ensure you have the right version for your device.
- Apple Pencil (1st generation)
Apple Pencil (1st generation) works with iPads that have a Lightning connector such as iPad (6th -9th generation), iPad Pro (1st and 2nd generation).
- Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
Apple Pencil (2nd generation) works with iPad Pro models that have a flat edge and a magnetic connector including iPad Pro 12.9 inch (3rd generation and later) and iPad Pro 11 inch (1st generation and later).
If you are unsure which Apple Pencil you have, the key difference is that the 1st generation Apple Pencil has a removable cap with a Lightning connector while the 2nd generation model has a flat side that attaches to the iPad for pairing.
3. Charge Your Apple Pencil
Before pairing, you have to ensure that your Apple Pencil has enough charge. A low battery can prevent the connection process.
- For Apple Pencil (1st generation)
You can plug it into your iPad’s Lightning port to charge.
- For Apple Pencil (2nd generation)
You have to attach it magnetically to your iPad to charge wirelessly.
How to Pair Apple Pencil to iPad (1st Generation)
If you are using the 1st generation Apple Pencil, you should follow these steps to pair it with your iPad:
1. Remove the Cap and Plug
You should remove the cap from your Apple Pencil to expose the Lightning connector. Then plug the Lightning connector into the iPad’s Lightning port.
2. Pair Your Apple Pencil
A notification should appear on the screen asking you to pair your Apple Pencil. Tap the Pair option.
3. Start Using Your Apple Pencil
Once paired, you are ready to use your Apple Pencil. You can start drawing, writing with ease.
4. Charging Your Apple Pencil
If the Pencil is low on power, you just plug it into the Lightning port of your iPad to charge. You should get a 15-30 minute charge after a few minutes of connection.
How to Pair Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
Here you can see the pairing process for 2nd generation Apple Pencil:
1. Attach Apple Pencil to the Connector
You need to attach the Apple Pencil to the flat side of your iPad where the magnetic connector is located. The Pencil will snap into place.
2. Pair Automatically
The iPad will automatically recognize the Apple Pencil and a prompt will appear asking you to tap Pair to confirm. Once it is paired, your Apple Pencil will work.
3. Charging Your Apple Pencil
As soon as the Apple Pencil is attached, it will charge wirelessly. You have to keep it connected when not in use.
Apple Pencil Not Connecting? Troubleshooting Solutions
Sometimes, apple pencil not connecting to your iPad. If that happens, you can follow these troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
1. Check Bluetooth Settings
Bluetooth is important to connect your Apple Pencil to your iPad. If your Bluetooth is off, the Apple Pencil will not pair.
- Go to Settings > Bluetooth option.
- If it is already on, try turning it off and on again to reset the connection.
2. Restart your iPad
A simple restart can resolve connection issues.
- You need to press and hold the power button until the slider appears, then slide to turn off.
- Wait 30 seconds, then press and hold the power button again to turn your iPad back on.
- You should try to pair your Apple Pencil once the iPad restarts.
3. Forget the Device and Reconnect
If your Apple Pencil is still not connecting, try to unpair it:
- Go to Settings > turn on Bluetooth and find your Apple Pencil below the My Devices.
- Tap the i next to your Apple Pencil and select Forget This Device.
- Then, try to pair your Apple Pencil again.
4. Try Charging Your Apple Pencil
If the Pair button doesn’t appear, your Apple Pencil might not have enough charge. You have to plug the Pencil into the iPad to allow it to charge for 1-2 minutes before trying to pair again.
5. Remove iPad Case
Sometimes, a bulky iPad case can interfere with the Bluetooth connection or block the magnetic connector. Then remove the case from your iPad and try again.
How to Connect Apple Pencil with iPad
For iPads that use USB C instead of Lightning, you may need the USB C to 1st generation Apple Pencil Adapter to connect your Apple Pencil:
- Attach the USB C to Apple Pencil Adapter to your iPad’s USB C port.
- Plug in your Apple Pencil and follow the standard pairing process to connect.
Final Thoughts
If you are using the 1st generation Apple Pencil, connecting Apple Pencil to iPad is a simple process. For the 1st generation, it requires physically plugging the Pencil into the Lightning port or using the USB C to Apple Pencil Adapter while the 2nd generation pairs wirelessly through magnetic attachment.
If you are looking to find the solution for how to pair apple pencil, you have to follow all the necessary steps mentioned above. If it fails, you should remove the iPad case and reset the connection. With a few steps and troubleshooting tips, you will be able to get the full functionality of your Apple Pencil whether for drawing or other creative tasks.
