Apple Pencil
not working?

The iPad name is only half the answer

Open Settings → General → About and record Model Name and iPadOS Version. Identify the Pencil from its packaging, receipt, or Apple’s model images, then check Apple’s exact compatibility list. A Pencil fitting against the edge is not a compatibility test.

Pro and 2nd generation are not interchangeable. For example, iPad mini (6th generation) supports 2nd generation; iPad mini (A17 Pro) supports Pro. USB-C works with both. Pro needs iPadOS 17.5 or later; USB-C needs 17.1.1 or later, on a supported iPad.

If the pair is incompatible, stop here and confirm the right accessory with the seller. Repeated charging and resets cannot make it compatible.

Choose your Pencil’s route

Turn on Settings → Bluetooth. Use the matching Apple instructions below on an undamaged iPad. Keep connectors straight; never force a plug.

Check the Pencil’s percentage in the Batteries widget or Settings → Apple Pencil. Record whether it appears and rises while charging. An absent reading alone does not prove a dead battery.

Reconnect deliberately, then stop repeating

For Pro, 2nd generation, or 1st generation, follow Apple’s pairing recovery:

1. Keep the Pencil attached or plugged in correctly. Save open work, restart the iPad normally, and check that Bluetooth is on.
2. If Apple Pencil appears under Bluetooth → My Devices, tap its information button and Forget This Device. Reattach or reconnect it and accept the pairing prompt.
3. If no prompt appears, let it charge for one minute, reconnect, and check again. For Pro or 2nd generation, remove the iPad’s case or cover and retry.

For USB-C, reconnect by cable as above. If needed, try a known-working, undamaged USB-C cable. If pairing or charging still fails, ask Apple for service rather than repeating the sequence indefinitely.

Apple also recommends current iPad software. On an undamaged iPad, back up your work, check Settings → General → Software Update, and install an available update before retesting.

Protect stored work. Erasing or restoring the iPad can delete data; skip those for these first checks. Export drawings stored only inside an app before deleting that app.

Connected is not the same as drawing

On intact glass, inspect the tip without tools. If cracked, missing, or exposing metal, stop drawing and ask Apple about a replacement tip or assessment. Do not press harder to make it respond.

Open a new note in Notes, show the drawing tools, choose a pen with a visible color, and draw a few light lines. Avoid the eraser or selection tool. Repeat in the app that was failing.

Writes in Notes, fails in one app

This comparison points toward that app’s selected tool, document, or settings. Save the work, reopen the app, check its updates, and ask its developer before deleting it.

Shows charge, but writes in neither app

Keep the result for assessment. Charging and pairing do not establish that the tip or iPad’s Pencil input works. Normal finger touch does not clear the Pencil input path.

Writes, but pressure or gestures seem missing

USB-C Pencil has no pressure sensitivity, double-tap, or squeeze. Other gestures depend on Pencil model, app support, and settings; see Apple’s drawing guide.

Bring both devices and the evidence

Seek service after damage, persistent pairing failure, no charging response with the correct setup, or failure in both apps. A known-working compatible Pencil can help a technician compare; one failed test is not a part diagnosis.

Send the iPad model and software version, Pencil model, battery readings, exact message, Notes-versus-app result, and any drop or update history. Bring both devices plus the cable or adapter used. Apple Support can review Pencil service and coverage. Ask HDR about iPad assessment if the tablet may be involved.