The problem may be subject to incompatibility between the pencil and iPad. The connectivity issue is another probable cause. Likewise, other causes include insufficient charge, system bugs, dirty USB ports, or an unclean Apple Pencil. Fortunately, we have gathered some proven fixes to solve the pairing issue of the Apple Pencil.
How to Fix Apple Pencil Not Connecting?
Sometimes, the application on your iPad may obstruct the connectivity of your Apple Pencil. You can close the running applications and try connecting the pencil again. Similarly, the problem may be due to insufficient charge on the pencil. In such a case, you should charge your pencil and try connecting it. Also, ensure your iPad has sufficient charge for proper functionality.
Know the Pairing Method and Its Compatibility
It is important that you are well aware of the pairing method of your Apple Pencil. There are two Apple Pencils, each with a distinctive pairing method. But first, you need to turn on the iPad’s Bluetooth. For that, choose Settings > Bluetooth > Toggle on the Bluetooth button. After that, you can check the methods below.
On 1st Generation Apple Pencil
The 6th – 9th generation iPad users can follow the steps below: Likely, the 10th-generation iPad users need to follow a slightly different method.
On 2nd Generation Apple Pencil
Meanwhile, there is a different method to pair the 2nd Generation Apple Pencil. Here’s how you can do it: After getting through the pairing process, it is equally important to know that your iPad supports the Apple Pencil. If the Pencil is incompatible with your iPad, you cannot connect them. So, you can visit the Apple Support page to check the Apple Pencil compatibility.
Restart Bluetooth
Your Apple Pencil and iPad are connected via Bluetooth. The connectivity issue can also be the main cause of the problem. You can consider restarting the iPad’s Bluetooth in such a case. It can certainly help your iPad identify the pencil and connect with it.
Restart iPad
There may be minor system bugs and malfunctions that may be interrupting the pairing process. You can restart your iPad to eliminate such issues. It will also clear the background processing and give your iPad a fresh start.
iPad Without Home Button
iPad With a Home Button
Clean the Charging Port and the Pencil
The problem can also result from debris gathered on the iPad’s charging port or the unclean Apple Pencil. Any foreign objects or dust particles stuck in the iPad’s lightning port can obstruct the linkage and cause pairing issues. A similar issue can arise if the pencil is not clean. Therefore, keeping the pencil and iPad charging ports in good condition is necessary. You can use a soft-bristled brush or other non-conductive tools to clean them. Ensure that the material you use is not sharp, as it can cause further tearing of the pin. Likewise, use a lint-free cloth to clean the pencil.
Re-pair the Apple Pencil
The connectivity issue is another hindrance while connecting the Apple Pencil to the iPad. It causes your iPad to malfunction and does not let the pencil connect. So, you can unpair your pencil and try the pairing process again.
Reset iPad’s Network Settings
Another option to try is to reset the network settings on your iPad. It will revert the network settings to default and help resolve connectivity problems. Sometimes, resetting the iPad’s network settings may not be enough to resolve the issue. You can reset all settings in such a case to set all settings to default. To do so,
Visit Apple Store
The possibility of the problem due to hardware issues also exists. Your iPad or Apple Pencil may be at risk. So, when none of the above-mentioned methods works for you, it is time to seek professional help. Thus, you should visit a nearby Apple Store and get your iPad and pencil checked.
