Is there an Apple pencil that works with the original iPad Air?

Is there an Apple pencil that works with the original iPad Air?


iPad Air

Posted on May 14, 2023 6:45 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on May 15, 2023 4:20 AM

No. The iPad Air1 fundamentally doesn’t support Apple Pencil - as it lacks the specific screen hardware with which the Apple Pencil interacts with the iPad screen. For information, here is Apple’s definitive compatibility list for Apple Pencil and iPad:

Apple Pencil compatibility - Apple Support


There are third-party Bluetooth Stylus’ available which offer limited support for iPad - perhaps the better known being those manufactured by Adonit:

https://www.adonit.net/


Bluetooth Stylus’ are fully reliant upon support being explicitly provided by third-party App Developers - and if only for this reason, support is very limited - as will be the usefulness of a Bluetooth Stylus.


The remaining alternative is a Capacitive Stylus. Be aware that a basic capacitive stylus offers no more capability or function than a fingertip - although for fine-tipped examples may offer slightly greater precision.


If you have need for an Apple Pencil, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad Air1 with a much newer model. Of current models, even the entry-level iPad9 has specifications and capabilities that will massively outperform you current iPad - it supports Apple Pencil, is compatible with iPadOS 16.x and current Apps. Other models are more powerful still.



3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

May 15, 2023 4:20 AM in response to volvogirl

No. The iPad Air1 fundamentally doesn’t support Apple Pencil - as it lacks the specific screen hardware with which the Apple Pencil interacts with the iPad screen. For information, here is Apple’s definitive compatibility list for Apple Pencil and iPad:

Apple Pencil compatibility - Apple Support


There are third-party Bluetooth Stylus’ available which offer limited support for iPad - perhaps the better known being those manufactured by Adonit:

https://www.adonit.net/


Bluetooth Stylus’ are fully reliant upon support being explicitly provided by third-party App Developers - and if only for this reason, support is very limited - as will be the usefulness of a Bluetooth Stylus.


The remaining alternative is a Capacitive Stylus. Be aware that a basic capacitive stylus offers no more capability or function than a fingertip - although for fine-tipped examples may offer slightly greater precision.


If you have need for an Apple Pencil, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad Air1 with a much newer model. Of current models, even the entry-level iPad9 has specifications and capabilities that will massively outperform you current iPad - it supports Apple Pencil, is compatible with iPadOS 16.x and current Apps. Other models are more powerful still.



May 14, 2023 7:12 PM in response to volvogirl

volvogirl Said:

"Is there an Apple pencil that works with the original iPad Air?"

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For reference...

Troubleshooting Apple Pencils:


Use these Links:

Syncing is off, or perhaps it is no longer being seen as a trusted device. So, refer to the following...


Verify the compatibility of your iPad and Apple Pencil


View: If your Apple Pencil won't pair with your iPad


Make Sure: that Bluetooth is enabled


Be Certain: there is power to your Apple Pencil


Successfully Pair: and charge your 2nd Generation Apple Pencil

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Is there an Apple pencil that works with the original iPad Air?

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