iPad Bluetooth Keyboard Not Connecting

🔍 Quick Checks

• Bluetooth on: Settings → Bluetooth → Make sure toggle is green
• Keyboard charged: Many keyboards need charging via Lightning or USB-C
• Keyboard on: Check for power switch/button on keyboard
• In range: Keep keyboard within 30 feet of iPad
• Pairing mode: Keyboard must be in discoverable mode to pair

🔄 Basic Fixes

1. Toggle Bluetooth: Settings → Bluetooth → Off, wait 10 seconds, On
2. Restart iPad: Hold power button, slide to power off, power back on
3. Restart keyboard: Turn off keyboard, wait 10 seconds, turn back on
4. Re-pair keyboard: Forget device in Settings, then pair again

🗑️ How to Forget and Re-Pair

1. Go to Settings → Bluetooth
2. Find your keyboard in "My Devices"
3. Tap the (i) icon next to keyboard name
4. Tap "Forget This Device"
5. Put keyboard in pairing mode (check keyboard manual)
6. Keyboard should appear under "Other Devices"
7. Tap to connect

⌨️ Magic Keyboard / Smart Keyboard Folio

These use the Smart Connector, not Bluetooth:

• Clean Smart Connector: Wipe the 3 metal dots on iPad edge and keyboard
• Check alignment: Make sure iPad sits properly in keyboard
• Remove case: Some cases block the Smart Connector
• Test with different app: Open Notes and try typing

⚙️ Advanced Troubleshooting

• Reset network settings: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Reset → Reset Network Settings (this also resets Bluetooth)
• Update iPadOS: Settings → General → Software Update
• Check for interference: USB 3.0 devices, microwaves, other Bluetooth devices can interfere
• Try keyboard with another device: Test if keyboard works with iPhone or Mac

🔋 Keyboard Battery Issues

• Magic Keyboard: Charge via Lightning cable, check battery in Bluetooth settings
• Third-party keyboards: Check for low battery indicator light
• AA/AAA keyboards: Replace batteries
• Rechargeable: Try different charging cable

🛠️ Recommended Keyboards

• Apple Magic Keyboard - Best compatibility with iPad
• Logitech K380 Bluetooth Keyboard - Great multi-device option
• iPad Keyboard Case - All-in-one protection and typing