In this article, I will show you how to connect Apple Pencil to iPad without plugging in. The article will also cover different tips and tricks that will make your overall user experience with the Apple Pencil and iPad better.
If you are wondering how to connect Apple pencil to iPad without lightning connector, then you need to be using the Apple Pencil 2 and not the older version.
An overview of what you will learn
- How you can connect Apple Pencil first Generation to an iPad
- How to connect Apple Pencil Second Generation to an iPad
- Tips on Apple Pencil connection Troubleshooting
- How to disconnect your Apple Pencil from iPad
How to Connect Apple Pencil 1st Generation to iPad
Below are steps you can follow to connect your Apple Pencil 1 to an iPad.
- Expose the lightening connector by removing the cap from the top Apple Pencil 1.
- Connect the Apple Pencil end to the iPad lightening connector at the bottom of the tablet.
- If you have a 10th generation iPad, you will have to use an USB-C to Pencil adapter.
- Once connected, you will notice s pop up message showing Bluetooth pairing request. Click on it to accept. Your iPad and Pencil are now connected.
The older Apple Pencil 1 connects to the iPad through a lightning end. Connecting the end to the iPad simply starts charging your Apple Pencil 1 and also prompts you to confirm Bluetooth pairing connection.
When you connect for the first time, a pop-up window appears, prompting you to pair the pencil and iPad. Your Apple Pencil 1 is now connected to your tablet. Once you insert the Apple Pencil 1 into your tablet, the top right corner of the iPad will display how much charge is available.
How to Connect Apple Pencil 2nd Generation to iPad
If you are using a new iPad Pro, you will need to connect to the Apple Pencil 2. Below are steps you need to follow.
- Go to your iPad and navigate to Bluetooth settings. Toggle Bluetooth on.
- You will notice one side of your Apple Pencil 2 is flat instead of round. This section is magneticand connects to your iPad surface.
- Connect the flat area of the Apple Pencil 2 to the right side of the iPad tablet which is also magnetic.
- A prompt will come up asking you to connect. Click on it and your device is Paired. The auto-pairing process is complete.
Connecting the Apple Pencil 2 is easier and faster compared to the Apple Pencil 1. The Apple Pencil 2 connects to the tablet on a magnetic connector at the side of your iPad.
The Apple Pencil 2 is not as round as the 1st generation. It features edged corners that perfectly provide a flat side surface on the tablet. A pop-up comes up prompting you to connect the pencil to the iPad.
How to check Apple Pencil battery life
Once you place the pencil on the magnetic area, the top right corner of the iPad will display how much charge is available. If you encounter any problems when installing, below are some ways to troubleshoot.
Make sure the pencil is compatible with the tablet. Apple Pencils 1 and 2 are not interchangeable. If you use a pencil with the wrong iPad, it will not work.
Turn on Bluetooth. The connection is fully dependent on a Bluetooth connection. Make sure it is turned on. Make sure the Apple Pencil goes in smoothly.
If it seems hard to connect, try turning it to make sure it is in the right direction. Before attempting to connect, let the pencil charge for a little while. At a 0% charge, it may not work.
Apple Pencil 1st and 2nd Generation Compatibility
As mentioned earlier, Apple Pencils 1 and 2 cannot be used interchangeably. Below are tablets compatible with the Apple Pencil 1.
- iPad Air (3rd generation)
- iPad mini (5th generation)
- iPad (6th generation)
- iPad (7th generation)
- iPad (8th generation)
- iPad Pro, 9.7-inch
- iPad Pro 10.5-inch
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st or 2nd generation)
Why does my Apple Pencil Keep Disconnecting?
Apple Pencils are some of the best stylus pens available in the market today. You can use it for many different professional functions such as drawing or writing with ease.
However, sometimes you may notice it can keep disconnecting when using. The final solution if the many troubleshooting does not work is finding a replacement.
The Apple Pencil is not cheap. You, therefore, need to try all troubleshoots before concluding you need a new one. Usually, however, you will not have to replace it.
Trouble Shooting Tips you can try if you encounter issues
There are several reasons why your Apple Pencil can start disconnecting. The most common problems include:
Make sure your Apple Pencil is charged
If your Apple Pencil is not well-charged, it will keep disconnecting. To know how much charge is available on your pencil, just stick the charging end into your iPad Pro for Apple Pencil 1 and it will display the available charge in the top right corner.
For Apple Pencil 2, you will have to connect the Pencil to the side of your iPad on the magnetic area. The amount of charge available is displayed.
Check Bluetooth Connection Issues
Your Apple Pencil communicates with the iPad through Bluetooth. If the iPad has faulty Bluetooth or is turned off, it will not communicate with the pencil.
The proximity between the iPad and Apple Pencil is also an important requirement. Unnecessary physical barriers will hinder seamless connectivity.
Check For Pairing issues
If your iPad and Pencil are not paired or have been improperly paired, you will have issues. You can solve this by unpairing and pairing it back again.
To unpair, go to Settings>Bluetooth> I then forget the device. Wait a little while and reconnect your Apple Pencil and iPad.
Lightning Connectors
If your lightning connectors on the iPad or Pencil are broken, you will not be able to connect. To verify whether you have a connector issue, check for broken pieces around the Apple Pencil Connector. You can use a flashlight for better visibility.
Restart Tablet
Another refresh option involves restarting the iPad and pencil. This will refresh both the pencil and tablet systems and can get rid of configuration issues.
Pencil Nib not properly set
Another common problem is when you do not have the nib properly connected. Pencil nibs are the tip of the pencil that you use to draw or write.
Wrongly connected Nibs will result in regular lags and disconnecting. Check to make sure it is fixed properly.
Apple Pencil replacement nibs
Apple Pencil 2nd Generation
- iPad Air (4th generation)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) and later
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) and later
Frequently Asked Questions
How to connect an Apple pencil to my iPad?
Ensure your iPad supports wireless pairing, such as the models in the provided search results.
Place the magnetic side of the Apple Pencil on the iPad’s side. The Apple Pencil will automatically snap onto the iPad due to the magnets.
Wait for the pairing process to complete. The iPad will recognize the Apple Pencil and establish a wireless connection.Can you charge the Apple Pencil wirelessly if it is not connected to the iPad?
Yes, you can charge the Apple Pencil wirelessly while it’s magnetically connected to the iPad. The Apple Pencil will automatically charge as long as it’s properly attached to the iPad’s magnetic side.
Wireless charging functionality allows the Apple Pencil to maintain its battery without the need for a direct physical connection or plugging it in.
This information is based on the natural interaction between the iPad and the Apple Pencil, as well as general knowledge about the Apple Pencil’s wireless charging capabilities.How to connect an Apple pencil without plugging it in?
You can only do this with an Apple Pencil 2nd generation. Instead of connecting the Apple Pencil to the iPad or using a lightning cable, you simply have to place the magnetic strip at the back of the iPad to the side of the Apple Pencil 2. You will be able to pair how to connect an apple pencil to an iPad without a lightning connector.
How to connect Apple Pencil 1 to iPad 10 without adapter?
To connect Apple Pencil 1 to iPad 10 without an adapter, you will just need to connect the pencil end to the iPad charging port.
Why does my Apple Pencil Keep Disconnecting?
Apple Pencils are some of the best stylus pens available in the market today. You can use it for many different professional functions such as drawing or writing with ease.
However, sometimes you may notice it can keep disconnecting when using. The final solution if the many troubleshooting does not work is finding a replacement.