You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Can the 1st generation Apple Pencil be used with the 5th generation iPad Air?

Can the first generation Apple Pencil be used with the fifth generation iPad Air?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Oct 10, 2023 5:34 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 10, 2023 7:02 AM

The iPad Air5 can be used with a second generation Apple Pencil. The iPad Air5 does not support the first generation Pencil.


Here is Apple’s definitive compatibility list for Apple Pencil and iPad:

Apple Pencil compatibility - Apple Support


The first and second generation Pencil use an entirely different pairing and charging interface. 


The second generation Pencil can only be used with iPad models that have the magnetic/inductive dock that is exclusively designed for the Pencil. Charging is controlled via the iPad magnetic dock.


The first generation Apple Pencil uses the physical Lightning port of the Pencil and host iPad for both pairing and charging the first generation Pencil. The first generation Pencil can also be charged using an inline charging adapter and the iPad’s Power Adapter. This pencil can only be used with compatible iPad models that have a Lightning connector; with the sole exception of the new iPad10, requiring a special adapter, iPad models that feature a USB-C port lack any means by which to pair with a first generation Pencil.


In summary, the Apple Pencil models are not interchangeable - and can only be used with the iPad that has appropriate internal hardware.

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 10, 2023 7:02 AM in response to David Popkin

The iPad Air5 can be used with a second generation Apple Pencil. The iPad Air5 does not support the first generation Pencil.


Here is Apple’s definitive compatibility list for Apple Pencil and iPad:

Apple Pencil compatibility - Apple Support


The first and second generation Pencil use an entirely different pairing and charging interface. 


The second generation Pencil can only be used with iPad models that have the magnetic/inductive dock that is exclusively designed for the Pencil. Charging is controlled via the iPad magnetic dock.


The first generation Apple Pencil uses the physical Lightning port of the Pencil and host iPad for both pairing and charging the first generation Pencil. The first generation Pencil can also be charged using an inline charging adapter and the iPad’s Power Adapter. This pencil can only be used with compatible iPad models that have a Lightning connector; with the sole exception of the new iPad10, requiring a special adapter, iPad models that feature a USB-C port lack any means by which to pair with a first generation Pencil.


In summary, the Apple Pencil models are not interchangeable - and can only be used with the iPad that has appropriate internal hardware.

Apr 7, 2024 4:29 AM in response to farnoush195

farnoush195 wrote:

Hello. I have a problem with my Apple Pencil 1 generation and iPad 6 generation last update of IOS,
They are paired and connected, but pencil doesn’t work.
I tried different ways, such as restarting the iPad, reconnecting and … .
But still nothing.
please help me to solve the issue.
best regards.


Ensure that the user-replaceable Pencil tip is snugly screwed into the body of the Apple Pencil; when fitted correctly you should see a tiny gap, of about the thickness of a sheet of paper, between the tip and pencil body. If slightly loosened, or overtightened, the Pencil may not work properly, if at all.


Be aware that if your iPad screen has ever been replaced by anyone other than Apple, the screen will not be properly calibrated; this situation is known to cause issues with the Pencil. Also, if the Pencil has been dropped onto its tip, or if the tip has been subjected to unnecessary force, the transducer element that its located beneath the replaceable plastic tip may have been damaged; a damaged Pencil cannot be repaired - only replaced.


If you need assistance, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be able to fully test and assess your iPad and Apple Pencil:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Can the 1st generation Apple Pencil be used with the 5th generation iPad Air?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.