Apple Pencil USB-C won't connect to iPad Pro 6th Gen

Apple Pencil USB-C Won’t Connect to iPad Pro 6th Gen (iPadOS 26.1), I’ve Tried Everything

Hi,

I recently bought an Apple Pencil USB-C (compatible with my iPad) and it refuses to connect. I’ve tried everything I (and AI) can think of including:

• Connecting the pencil to the iPad with different cables (all tested as data-transfer capable)
• Making sure the tip is secure
• Leaving it connected to the iPad for various lengths of time
• Resetting all settings, network settings, and even doing a full factory reset
• Rebooting the iPad multiple times
• “CIO reboot”
• Removing my screen protector
• Booting in recovery mode
• Charging the pencil with an outlet
• Cleaning the ports of the pencil and the iPad
• Booting the iPad with the pencil on the screen

I bought a second Apple Pencil USB-C thinking the pencil was the issue, and I’m having the same problem.

My setup:

• iPad Pro 6th generation
• iPadOS 26.1
• 2 different Apple Pencil USB-C’s

Bluetooth works, the iPad holds charge, and everything else functions perfectly. The only thing I can think of is it’s the iPad itself, but like I said, it works perfectly outside of this.

I’ve watched every video under the sun on Apple Pencil issues, read form posts/articles, and even asked AI for additional solutions.

Any advice?

Thank you.