Bluetooth keyboard connected but doesn’t type

Question

Bluetooth keyboard connected but doesn’t type

I am having an ongoing problem with my M2 iPad Pro (iPadOS 17.6) and a Logitech Pebble 2 Bluetooth keyboard. It connects fine but intermittently stops typing. When this happens, it remains connected, and the function keys continue working, as well as keyboard shortcuts such as ⌘-tab. I just can’t type into text fields such as search bars, or compose text in Notes, Mail, MS Word etc.

I have not been able to determine if there is a particular trigger for the behaviour. It is possibly more frequent when using an external monitor, but also happens when the iPad is used alone.

Disconnecting and reconnecting the keyboard doesn’t help, and nor does switching it on and off.

Restarting the iPad is a reliable fix that results in it working again for a while, maybe an hour or so, then it will stop again. Occasionally, but not always, switching apps with ⌘-tab can get it working again as well.

Other Bluetooth devices (pencil, mouse, headphones) work without problems.

This is a major issue as I use the iPad as a primary device, and rebooting constantly is disruptive.

Any advice gratefully received!

iPad Pro

Posted on Aug 10, 2024 3:04 AM

Reply

Answer 1

LotusPilot

Level 10

311,237 points

Aug 10, 2024 3:11 AM in response to forum–poster

You may have tried some of this already...

Begin with a forced-restart of your iPad - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
Press and hold the top button.
When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings

If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support

Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Reply

Bluetooth keyboard connected but doesn’t type

Similar questions