Ipad 7th generation won’t connect to keyboard through Smart Connector

Old keyboard stopped working, new one isn’t working either.

makes me think it’s the ipad


Posted on Oct 5, 2023 12:30 PM

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Posted on Oct 5, 2023 3:22 PM

Remove the iPad from the Keyboard - and carefully/gently clean the smart connector contacts on both the iPad and keyboard with a soft pencil eraser (a drafting-film eraser is ideal). Ensure that the contacts on both iPad and keyboard are dirt and dust free - and all debris from the eraser have been removed - before reconnecting the two.


If you can't connect your iPad to your Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard, or Smart Keyboard Folio - Apple Support


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 5, 2023 3:22 PM in response to donaldfromnunnelly

Remove the iPad from the Keyboard - and carefully/gently clean the smart connector contacts on both the iPad and keyboard with a soft pencil eraser (a drafting-film eraser is ideal). Ensure that the contacts on both iPad and keyboard are dirt and dust free - and all debris from the eraser have been removed - before reconnecting the two.


If you can't connect your iPad to your Magic Keyboard, Smart Keyboard, or Smart Keyboard Folio - Apple Support


Oct 5, 2023 3:25 PM in response to donaldfromnunnelly

If your 7th generation iPad isn't connecting to a Smart Connector keyboard, and you've tried multiple keyboards without success, there could be a few potential reasons for the issue:


1. **Check Compatibility:** Ensure that the keyboards you're trying to use are compatible with your 7th generation iPad. Not all Smart Connector keyboards are compatible with all iPad models.


2. **Inspect Smart Connector:** Examine the Smart Connector pins on the back of your iPad to ensure they are clean and free from debris or damage. Likewise, make sure the connectors on the keyboard are clean and in good condition.


3. **Update iOS:** Make sure your iPad is running the latest version of iOS. Sometimes, updating the operating system can resolve compatibility issues.


4. **Restart Your iPad:** Try restarting your iPad. Occasionally, a software glitch can prevent proper communication with the Smart Connector.


5. **Factory Reset (as a last resort):** If the issue persists, you can try performing a factory reset on your iPad. However, this should be a last resort, as it will erase all your data. You can do this by going to "Settings" > "General" > "Reset" > "Erase All Content and Settings."


6. **Apple Support:** If none of these steps resolves the issue, it's advisable to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance. There could be an underlying hardware issue with your iPad's Smart Connector that needs professional evaluation and repair.


Since you mentioned that both an old and a new keyboard are not working, it's less likely that the issue is with the keyboards themselves and more likely a problem with the iPad's Smart Connector or software. Apple Support can help diagnose and resolve the problem.

Jul 5, 2024 4:15 PM in response to donaldfromnunnelly

I have a 7gen iPad. O keyboard. I have a Targus THZ857 keyboard sleeve that the iPad fits into. Lost the sheet that tells me what the special keys mean. Can only USE ONSCREEN KEYBOARD. WANT TO FIND SHEET WITH KEY EXPLANATION. Everything else works fine. I’ve ckd everything else. Even removed iPad. Cleaned everything. Rebooted. 😥😥😥











Jul 6, 2024 3:14 AM in response to marshafromframingham

marshafromframingham wrote:

I have a 7gen iPad. O keyboard. I have a Targus THZ857 keyboard sleeve that the iPad fits into. Lost the sheet that tells me what the special keys mean. Can only USE ONSCREEN KEYBOARD. WANT TO FIND SHEET WITH KEY EXPLANATION.


Perhaps you refer to the list of special key combinations that can be accessed by a press-and-hold of the Command key...


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Ipad 7th generation won’t connect to keyboard through Smart Connector

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