How to Pair Apple Pencil Magnetically A Step-by-Step Guide for iPad UsersApple Pencil has become an essential tool for iPad users, especially those who enjoy drawing, note-taking, or navigating with precision. If you own the Apple Pencil 2nd generation, pairing it with your iPad is incredibly easy thanks to its magnetic pairing feature. This topic explains how to pair your Apple Pencil magnetically, what devices support it, and how to troubleshoot if pairing doesn’t work as expected.
Understanding Magnetic Pairing
Apple Pencil 2nd generation doesn’t rely on cables or external ports to connect to an iPad. Instead, it uses a magnetic connector on the side of compatible iPad models. Once attached, pairing happens instantly via Bluetooth.
Compatible Devices
Not all iPads support magnetic pairing. To use this feature, you need one of the following iPad models
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iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation or later)
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iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation or later)
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iPad Air (4th generation or later)
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iPad mini (6th generation)
These models have a flat edge with a magnetic strip that enables both charging and pairing for the Apple Pencil 2nd generation.
How to Pair Apple Pencil Magnetically
1. Check Compatibility
Before you begin, confirm that your Apple Pencil and iPad model are compatible. The 2nd generation Apple Pencil won’t pair magnetically with older iPads or the original Apple Pencil.
2. Enable Bluetooth
Make sure Bluetooth is turned on. Go to Settings > Bluetooth and toggle the switch on if it’s off.
3. Attach the Apple Pencil
Gently place the flat side of the Apple Pencil on the magnetic strip located on the right edge of your iPad (when in portrait mode). You should feel it snap into place.
4. Wait for the Notification
Once attached, a prompt should appear on your iPad screen that says, ‘Apple Pencil’ along with a battery indicator. This confirms that the pairing is successful.
Reconnecting Automatically
After the initial pairing, your Apple Pencil will automatically reconnect each time it’s attached magnetically. There’s no need to repeat the setup unless you unpair it manually or connect it to another iPad.
Charging Through Magnetic Attachment
Besides pairing, the magnetic connector also charges the Apple Pencil. When it’s snapped onto the side of the iPad, it will start charging automatically. You can check the battery status from the Batteries widget on the iPad.
Troubleshooting Pairing Issues
Sometimes, the magnetic pairing might not work right away. Here are some tips to fix the problem
1. Restart Your iPad
Rebooting the device can solve temporary software glitches that may prevent pairing.
2. Check iPad Software
Make sure your iPad is updated to the latest version of iPadOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
3. Clean the Connector
Dust or debris on the magnetic edge can prevent a secure connection. Wipe both the iPad and Apple Pencil edges gently with a dry, soft cloth.
4. Forget and Re-Pair
If the Apple Pencil was previously connected but stopped working
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Go to Settings > Bluetooth
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Tap the i icon next to Apple Pencil
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Choose Forget This Device
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Then reattach the pencil to initiate pairing again
Apple Pencil Not Snapping Into Place?
If the pencil doesn’t stay attached or slides off easily, check
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If the iPad case is blocking the magnetic area
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If the iPad is placed on a soft or uneven surface
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Whether you’re using a third-party accessory that interferes with the magnet
For best results, remove any thick or non-Apple cases during the pairing process.
Using the Pencil After Pairing
Once your Apple Pencil is paired
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You can draw, sketch, annotate PDFs, and navigate
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Double-tap on the flat side to switch tools in supported apps
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Use it in apps like Notes, Procreate, GoodNotes, and more
Everything works wirelessly, and there’s no need to reconnect manually each time.
Can You Pair It to Multiple iPads?
The Apple Pencil can only be paired to one iPad at a time. If you want to use it with a different iPad, simply attach it to that device’s magnetic edge. This will unpair it from the first iPad and automatically pair it to the new one.
Checking the Battery Level
You can check how much battery is left in your Apple Pencil using the Batteries widget
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Swipe right from the home screen to access widgets
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Scroll down and tap Edit
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Add the Batteries widget if it’s not already shown
This lets you monitor charging when the pencil is docked.
Does Magnetic Pairing Work Without Internet?
Yes, pairing works offline. Since it uses Bluetooth and the iPad’s internal magnetic connector, no Wi-Fi or mobile data is needed to pair or use the Apple Pencil.
Magnetic pairing makes using the Apple Pencil more seamless and convenient than ever. With a simple snap to the side of your iPad, your pencil connects, charges, and is ready to use. By ensuring compatibility, enabling Bluetooth, and keeping connectors clean, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re drawing, taking notes, or marking up documents, the Apple Pencil is always just a snap away.