iPad Air 2020 vs apple pencil 1st generation

The first and second generation Apple Pencil use entirely different pairing and charging techniques. The two versions of Pencil are not interchangeable - but must be chosen for the iPad with which it is to be used.

Your first generation Apple Pencil is not compatible with the 2018/2020 models of iPad Pro - or the new fourth generation iPad Air. These models of iPad do not feature the Lightning Port that is necessary to both pair and charge the first generation Pencil.

Your new iPad Air4, in common with the newest models of iPad Pro, have a USB-C port - and an entirely different charging and pairing method for the second generation Pencil.

Here is Apple’s definitive compatibility list:

Apple Pencil (2nd generation)

You can use Apple Pencil (2nd generation) with these iPad models: 

• iPad Air (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) and later
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) and later

Apple Pencil (1st generation)

You can use Apple Pencil (1st generation) with these iPad models:

• iPad (8th generation)
• iPad mini (5th generation)
• iPad (7th generation)
• iPad (6th generation)
• iPad Air (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st or 2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro 9.7-inch

Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.

You need to purchase the newer 2nd gen Apple Pencil to use with the new 2020 iPad Air 4.

The 1st gen Apple Pencil is incompatible and will NOT work.

Sorry.