The introduction of Apple Pencil brought about a shift in how an iPad is used and the precision tool earned a reputation — like AirPods — for being a device that just works. But like every electronic, it is susceptible to unforeseen hiccups.

Hence, in this article, we have listed five steps you should take to fix your Apple Pencil if it suddenly stops working.

Before we delve into the steps, check out the list of compatible devices below to ensure that your Pencil is compatible with your iPad.

List of devices that support Apple Pencil (1st-gen)

• iPad Air (3rd-gen)
• iPad (6th-gen)
• iPad (7th-gen)
• iPad mini (5th-gen)
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st and 2nd gen)

List of devices that support Apple Pencil (2nd-gen)

• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st-gen and later)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd-gen and later)

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Step 1: Check Inactive Bluetooth on iPad

Normally users insert Apple Pencil into the Lightning port of an iPad or place it on the magnetic strip (in iPad Pro models) for it to start working but the stylus will not function if your iPad’s Bluetooth is inactive.

To reconnect your stylus follow the steps listed below:

• Swipe down in the right-top corner to bring down the Control Centre.
• Check the Bluetooth symbol; if greyed out, tap on it to activate Bluetooth.
• Now plug in your Pencil or place it on the magnetic strip to pair.

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Step 2: Check Pencil Charge Levels

Since Apple Pencil has no physical indicators for charge levels, knowing what percentage of battery you have left is impossible without using an iPad.

If active, you can see how much charge your Pencil holds in Batteries widget or in Apple Pencil subsection of the Settings application.

If Apple Pencil is not visible, put it down to charge and leave it undisturbed for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Also read: How to check Apple Pencil’s battery?

Step 3: Check Pencil Tip

If you haven’t noticed, the tip of Apple Pencil wears out over time and needs to be replaced; constant use can also loosen the tip.

A worn-out or loosened tip can lead to inconsistent or no response on your screen. To fix this, tighten the tip by rotating it in a clockwise direction or buy a replacement set from Apple.

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Step 4: Unpair Pencil and Pair again

A common fix to issues faced by Bluetooth-based devices is to unpair said device and pair it again. Hence, listed below are the steps to unpair your Apple Pencil:

• Open Settings and tap on Bluetooth.
• Locate Apple Pencil.
• Tap on the i icon and choose Forget This Device.

To pair your Apple Pencil, plug it into the Lightning port (1st-gen) or place it on the magnetic strip (2nd-gen).

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Step 5: Restart iPad

While the root cause of the issue can be Apple Pencil, restarting your iPad can fix any underlying software issues. Turning off your iPad resets the connection between the stylus and tablet.

Listed below are steps to turn off your iPad:

For devices without a Home button

Hold down the Sleep/Wake button alongwith either of the volume buttons for a few seconds until, “slider to power off” shows up. Do as indicated to turn off the iPad.

For devices with a Home button

Hold down the Sleep/Wake button to bring forth the slider to turn off iPad. Do as indicated to turn off the iPad.

To restart your iPad hold down the Sleep/Wake button until the Apple logo is displayed.

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