The Apple Pencil is a fantastic tool for iPad users. It’s great for taking notes, sketching, and even professional design work. However, like any device, it needs power to function. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to charge your Apple Pencil.
Understanding Your Apple Pencil
Before we delve into charging, it’s important to understand that there are two generations of Apple Pencil, and they have different charging methods. The first-generation Apple Pencil, released in 2015, has a Lightning connector hidden under a magnetic cap at the end. The second-generation Apple Pencil, released in 2018, does away with the Lightning connector and charges wirelessly.
Charging the First-Generation Apple Pencil
The first-generation Apple Pencil charges using a Lightning connector. Here’s how:
Directly from iPad
- Remove the cap: The end of your Apple Pencil is capped with a small magnetic cover. Pull this off to reveal the Lightning connector.
- Plug into iPad: Insert the Apple Pencil’s Lightning connector into the Lightning port of your iPad.
- Wait: A notification will appear on your iPad’s screen confirming that the Apple Pencil is charging. Leave the pencil plugged in until it’s fully charged. A full charge typically takes about 10 minutes and delivers 12 hours of use.
Using the Lightning Adapter
If you find it awkward to charge the Apple Pencil directly from your iPad, you can use the Lightning adapter that came with the pencil.
- Connect the adapter: Plug the small end of the adapter into the Lightning connector on your Apple Pencil.
- Plug into a Lightning cable: Connect a Lightning cable (the same one you use to charge your iPad) to the other end of the adapter.
- Plug into a power source: Connect the other end of the Lightning cable to a USB power adapter, and plug the adapter into a wall socket. Alternatively, you can plug the Lightning cable into a USB port on a computer.
Charging the Second-Generation Apple Pencil
The second-generation Apple Pencil charges wirelessly when it’s magnetically attached to the side of your iPad. Here’s how:
- Attach to iPad: Simply place the flat side of the Apple Pencil against the right edge of your iPad (the same side as the volume buttons). It will magnetically snap into place, and a notification will appear on your iPad’s screen confirming that the Apple Pencil is charging.
- Wait: Leave the pencil attached until it’s fully charged. A full charge typically takes about 10 minutes and delivers 12 hours of use.
Checking Battery Level
You can check the battery level of your Apple Pencil in the Batteries widget in your iPad’s Today View. To access Today View, swipe right from your home screen or lock screen. If you don’t see the Batteries widget, scroll to the bottom, tap Edit, and then add the Batteries widget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, charging your Apple Pencil depends on whether you have a first-generation pencil (which charges via Lightning connector) or a second-generation pencil (which charges wirelessly). Remember to keep your Apple Pencil charged so it’s ready when you need it.
FAQs About How to Charge Your Apple Pencil
Q: How do I charge my Apple Pencil?
A: The charging method depends on which model you have. For the 1st Generation, you can plug it into the Lightning port of your iPad. The 2nd Generation Apple Pencil charges wirelessly when you attach it magnetically to the side of your iPad Pro or iPad Air.
Q: How long does it take to fully charge an Apple Pencil?
A: Both the 1st and 2nd Generation Apple Pencils can reach a full charge in about 10-15 minutes.
Q: Can I check the battery level of my Apple Pencil?
A: Yes, you can check the battery level by viewing the ‘Batteries’ widget in the Today View on your iPad.
Q: What should I do if my Apple Pencil isn’t charging?
A: Make sure your iPad has iOS 12.2 or later installed. If the pencil still won’t charge, try restarting your iPad and reconnecting the pencil. If the problem persists, contact Apple Support.
Q: Can I use my Apple Pencil while it’s charging?
A: The 1st Generation Apple Pencil cannot be used while charging since it must be plugged into the iPad’s port. However, the 2nd Generation can be used while charging as it charges wirelessly from the side of the iPad.
Q: Does the Apple Pencil charger come with the purchase?
A: The 1st Generation Apple Pencil comes with a Lightning adapter for charging. The 2nd Generation Apple Pencil doesn’t require a separate charger; it charges when attached to the iPad Pro or iPad Air.
Q: How long does the Apple Pencil’s charge last?
A: On a full charge, the Apple Pencil provides up to 12 hours of use. If it’s not used, it can stay charged for around 30 minutes.
Q: Can I charge my Apple Pencil with my iPhone?
A: The 1st Generation Apple Pencil can technically be charged using an iPhone’s Lightning port, but it’s not recommended due to the risk of damaging the pencil or iPhone. The 2nd Generation Apple Pencil cannot be charged with an iPhone.
Q: Is there a way to extend the battery life of my Apple Pencil?
A: To extend the battery life, you can turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using the pencil. This will prevent the pencil from maintaining a connection with your iPad and draining the battery.
Q: Can I overcharge my Apple Pencil?
A: No, the Apple Pencil is designed to prevent overcharging. Once it reaches a full charge, it will stop drawing power.
