Are you frustrated because your Apple Pencil won’t seem to charge anymore?
You’re not alone. Unfortunately, this is a common problem for many users from time to time and there are a few steps you can take to try and troubleshoot the issue.
Here, we’ll take a look at some of the potential problems that might be preventing your Apple Pencil from charging properly, as well as how to resolve them.
With just a few simple solutions, you could get back on track with using your beloved pencil in no time.
Why won’t my Apple pencil charge: Top 9 Reasons
1. Check for dirt, dust, or debris on the lightning port
One of the most common causes for the Apple Pencil not being able to charge is the presence of dirt, dust, or debris in the Lightning port.
These can prevent the pencil from making a proper connection to the charger. Before you start worrying, take a close look at the port on the Apple Pencil and on the iPad.
If you do see anything clogging them up, you can use a clean, dry, soft-bristle brush to gently remove it.
But be careful not to damage the port or the connector. Once you’ve cleaned it, try charging the pencil again.
2. Ensure your charger is plugged into a working power outlet
If your Apple Pencil still won’t charge, the issue could be as simple as the power outlet you’re using.
Double-check to ensure that your charger is plugged into a working outlet. A great way to test this is by plugging in another device to see if it charges.
If it doesn’t, try a different outlet. It’s also worth noting that USB ports on computers or other devices may not supply enough power to charge the Apple Pencil, so it’s always best to use a wall outlet whenever possible.
Once you’ve ensured that your charger and outlet are functioning properly, reconnect your Apple Pencil and check if it starts charging.
3. Make sure that your Apple Pencil is compatible with your device
Not all Apple Pencils are compatible with all iPads. The original Apple Pencil works with a select group of iPads, while the second-generation Apple Pencil is only compatible with specific newer models.
Therefore, if your Apple Pencil is not charging, it might be due to a compatibility issue.
You can check Apple’s official website or your device’s documentation to see if your Apple Pencil is compatible with your iPad.
If it is not, unfortunately, your Apple Pencil will not charge or work with your device.
Always remember to verify the compatibility of your Apple Pencil with your iPad before making a purchase.
4. Try restarting your device
Sometimes, a simple device restart can help in resolving minor technical glitches, including the ‘Apple Pencil won’t charge’ issue.
To do this, press and hold the power button of your iPad until you see the slide to power off the slider.
Slide it from left to right to turn off the device. Wait for about a minute and then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears to turn it back on.
After your device restarts, try charging your Apple Pencil again. It’s surprising how often a quick restart can solve problems, don’t overlook this easy troubleshooting step.
5. Update to the latest software update of the iPad and Apple Pencil
Apple continuously enhances and rectifies technical issues through periodic software updates. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your iPad and Apple Pencil updated to the latest software version.
If your Apple Pencil won’t charge, it might be a software issue that can be resolved through an update.
To update your iPad, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, tap ‘Download and Install’.
For the Apple Pencil, there is no direct way to update its software. However, once your iPad is updated, it will automatically update the software of the paired Apple Pencil.
After completing the update, try charging your Apple Pencil again. If the issue still persists, it may be a hardware problem, and you should consider contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store.
6. Replace the charging cable
If your Apple Pencil still won’t charge after trying the previous steps, the problem might be with your charging cable.
This is particularly likely if you’ve noticed that the cable is frayed, damaged, or doesn’t securely fit into your device. If this is the case, replace the cable with a new one.
Apple Pencil uses a Lightning to USB cable for charging, which is a common cable that can be found in most electronics stores.
After replacing the cable, attempt to charge your Apple Pencil again. If the charging issue persists even with a new cable, it is likely a hardware issue, and you should reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.
7. Test another wall plug adapter and charging cable
If you’ve tried all the previous steps and your Apple Pencil still won’t charge, it could be due to a faulty charging cable or wall plug adapter.
To confirm this, try using a different Lightning to USB cable and a different wall plug adapter. Remember to use Apple-certified products to avoid any compatibility issues.
After swapping these accessories, attempt to charge your Apple Pencil again. If it starts charging, then the problem was likely with your previous cable or adapter.
However, if the charging issue persists, your Apple Pencil may have a hardware problem, and it would be best to contact Apple Support for further assistance.
8. Reset the Pencil’s Bluetooth Connection
Another possible reason why your Apple Pencil won’t charge may be a disrupted Bluetooth connection between the Pencil and your iPad.
A quick way to troubleshoot this is to reset the connection. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Settings app on your iPad.
- Navigate to Bluetooth.
- You’ll see the list of devices your iPad is connected to. Find Apple Pencil and tap on the info icon next to it.
- Tap Forget This Device and confirm your decision.
This will disconnect your Apple Pencil from your iPad. Now, restart your iPad and reconnect your Apple Pencil by plugging it into the iPad’s charging port.
If the charging issue persists even after resetting the Bluetooth connection, it could indicate a more serious hardware problem, for which you should contact Apple Support for further assistance.
9. Visit an Apple Store for additional support
If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, and your Apple Pencil still won’t charge, it’s time to seek professional help. Visit an Apple Store or an authorized Apple Service Provider.
The expert technicians will be able to conduct a thorough inspection and troubleshooting to identify and rectify the problem.
Before visiting, it’s advisable to book an appointment through the Apple Support website to avoid long queues.
Also, if your Apple Pencil is under warranty, remember to bring the necessary documents with you.
Remember, it’s not advisable to attempt to disassemble or fix your Apple Pencil by yourself as it could lead to further damage.
Clean the Pencil Connector & iPad Port
Even the slightest amount of debris or dirt in the charging port of your Apple Pencil or your iPad can prevent the Pencil from charging properly.
Here are the steps to clean both connectors:
- Unplug any accessories or cables from your iPad and Apple Pencil.
- Use a clean, soft, lint-free cloth to clean the charging port of your iPad.
- For the Apple Pencil, gently wipe the Lightning connector with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth.
- Avoid using any sharp objects or abrasive materials, as they could cause damage to the port or connector.
After cleaning, try charging the Apple Pencil again. If it still won’t charge, there’s a likelihood of a deeper underlying issue that might require professional assistance.
Force Restart Your iPad & Apple Pencil
If your Apple Pencil won’t charge, it’s possible that the problem lies with your iPad rather than the Pencil itself.
To rule this out, try force restarting both your iPad and Apple Pencil by following these steps:
- For iPad Pro models with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then press and quickly
Remove bulky cases
Removing bulky cases from your iPad can often resolve charging issues with the Apple Pencil. Sometimes, these cases or covers interfere with the connection between the Apple Pencil and the iPad’s charging port.
Follow these steps to remove your iPad case:
- Gently take off the case or cover from your iPad ensuring you avoid any unnecessary force that could damage your device.
- Once you’ve removed the case, connect your Apple Pencil to your iPad and see if it begins to charge.
Remember, safety should always come first. Always handle your devices with care to prevent any damage.
If your Apple Pencil still won’t charge after removing the case from your iPad, it may be time to contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a multitude of factors can contribute to your Apple Pencil not charging as expected.
The hurdles may range from simple issues like debris in the charging port to more complex problems that need professional intervention.
Always start by conducting a thorough cleaning of your charging ports and removing any bulky cases or covers that might be hampering the connection.
If the Apple Pencil still won’t charge, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apple Support. Remember, ensuring the longevity of your devices starts with proper handling and prompt issue resolution.
FAQs
1. Why won’t my Apple Pencil charge?
Several factors could hinder your Apple Pencil from charging. It may be due to debris in the charging port, a bulky case interfering with the connection, or a more complex issue that requires professional help.
2. How can I prevent my Apple Pencil from failing to charge?
To prevent charging issues, ensure your charging ports are clean and clear of debris. Also, remove any bulky cases that might obstruct the connection between the Apple Pencil and the iPad.
3. What should I do if my Apple Pencil still won’t charge after following these steps?
If you’ve followed the steps outlined and your Apple Pencil still won’t charge, it’s advised to contact Apple Support for professional assistance.
4. Is it possible that my Apple Pencil is damaged?
Yes, it is possible. If your Apple Pencil won’t charge and you’ve ruled out other potential causes, there might be an internal issue with the Pencil itself that needs professional intervention.
5. Can an Apple Pencil be repaired if it won’t charge anymore?
Yes, Apple provides repair services for the Apple Pencil. However, depending on the issue and your warranty, it might be more cost-effective to replace it entirely. Always consult with Apple Support before making this decision.
