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 for both pairing and charging the first generation Pencil. This pencil can only be used with compatible iPad models that have a Lightning connector.
In summary, the Apple Pencil models are not interchangeable - and can only be used with the iPad that has appropriate internal hardware.
Here is the definitive compatibility list for Apple Pencil and iPad:
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.
Assuming that you have an Apple Pencil that is compatible with your iPad, this support page may be helpful with pairing and use of the Pencil with your iPad:
Connect Apple Pencil with your iPad - Apple Support
If you continue to experience difficulties, here is one of the better troubleshooting guides:
https://appletoolbox.com/apple-pencil-not-working-heres-our-troubleshooting-guide/
Be aware that if your Pencil has been set-aside for an extended period, unused and uncharged, the Pencil battery may now be irretrievably damaged through deep discharge. In common with all Li-ion batteries, they must always have some level of charge.
The tiny internal Li-ion battery is susceptible to permanent/irreversible damage through being left discharged for long periods. Even some “new” pencils can exhibit signs of failure out-of-the-box if they are “old stock”.
It is essential that if you have an Apple Pencil that you charge it regularly - whether used or not - so as to protect the battery from deep-discharge. Do not allow a pencil to remain in low-charge state for any period of time - as the internal battery will fail, rendering the Pencil useless. Setting aside an unused Pencil, for extended periods, is a recipe for premature death of the Pencil battery.
If the Pencil Battery has failed, the only remedy is to replace the Pencil. If the battery has failed and your pencil is within its one-year warranty, you should look to having it replaced by your retailer or at an Apple Store.
