Apple Pencil 1st Gen: Tip Not Detecting Numerous Times

Question

Level 1

4 points

Apple Pencil 1st Gen: Tip Not Detecting Numerous Times

I've had my first generation apple pencil for 3-5 years now and it's been acting up since I upgraded from my iPad 6th Gen -> iPad A16.

It says it's connected to my iPad, shown from my battery widget and my Bluetooth menu, but it doesn't want to detect the tip touching my iPad. It would work for a few minutes, but fail afterwards. I've tried resetting my iPad, turning BT off and on, connect my apple pencil via cable & lightning to USB-C adapter, and re-twisting the tip.

I've also had an issue during the handful of times it would work, such as when I'm drawing it would constantly disconnect. I cannot draw a line as it would "splotch", as if I was tapping the iPad numerous times instead of drawing a line.

Would these issues indicate a battery failure, or should I get a tip replacement? If it indicates a battery failure, how can I prolong the lifetime of the Apple Pencil?

Apple Pencil (1st generation)

Posted on Feb 18, 2026 7:17 AM

Reply

Answer 1

LotusPilot

Level 10

303,380 points

Feb 19, 2026 7:43 AM in response to chuloo

As described, the Apple Pencil has successfully paired with the iPad. Inconsistent drawing will either be due to a problem with the Pencil itself, or its interaction with the iPad screen.

Ensure that the user-replaceable Pencil tip is snugly screwed into the body of the Apple Pencil; when fitted correctly you should see a tiny gap, of about the thickness of a sheet of paper, between the tip and pencil body. If slightly loosened, or overtightened, the Pencil may not work properly, if at all.

Be aware that if the Pencil has been dropped onto its tip, or if the tip has been subjected to unnecessary force, the transducer element that its located beneath the replaceable plastic tip may have been damaged; a damaged Pencil cannot be repaired - only replaced.

If you need assistance, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) will be able to fully test and assess your iPad and Apple Pencil:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Reply

Answer 2

chuloo Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 18, 2026 7:33 AM in response to chuloo

Here is a photo of my dilemma. I tried drawing four lines. Sometimes it would work and draw an actual line, but most of the time it's like this.

Reply