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Tools and accessories matched to this guide.
Apple Pencil 2 pairs only with certain iPad models. If yours won't pair, check compatibility first.
Apple Pencil 2 works with: iPad Pro (2nd gen +), iPad Air (3rd gen +), iPad (7th gen +), iPad mini (5th gen +)
If your iPad is older, it doesn't support Pencil 2 (get Pencil 1 instead).
The Pencil 2 pairs via a magnetic connector on the iPad edge. Dirt blocks the connection. Wipe the connector on both Pencil and iPad with a dry cloth.
Turn Bluetooth off on your iPad for 10 seconds, then back on. This resets the Bluetooth radio.
On iPad: Settings → Bluetooth → tap info next to Apple Pencil → Forget This Device. Charge the Pencil by magnetically attaching it to the iPad for 30 seconds. It should re-pair automatically.
Firmware bugs prevent pairing. Update your iPad's OS first, then ensure Pencil is connected to allow firmware auto-update.
Force restart iPad: Volume Up → Vol Down → hold Power 10 seconds. Restart Pencil by pressing the cap button briefly, then double-pressing to put it in pairing mode.
If the iPad's Bluetooth is broken or the Pencil's Bluetooth chip is damaged, pairing fails. Cost: $99–$129 for Pencil 2 replacement.
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