Introduction
If you’re an artist, note-taker, or someone who regularly uses an iPad, you’ve probably invested in the Apple Pencil 2 – one of Apple’s most innovative and sought-after gadgets. But with great technology comes great responsibility, and that includes knowing how to charge it properly to prolong its battery life. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about charging Apple Pencil 2, tips for troubleshooting common charging issues, and even power-saving suggestions to extend its battery life.
Step-by-Step Guide to Charging Apple Pencil 2
The first step to keeping your Apple Pencil 2 juiced up is having the right accessories. You’ll need a USB-C cable and power adapter that comes with your iPad Pro or purchased separately. Once you have them, follow these steps:
- Remove the cap of your Apple Pencil 2 to reveal the lightning connector.
- Insert the lightning connector into the USB-C charging port located at the end of your pen.
- Use the USB-C cable to connect your Apple Pencil 2 to the power adapter, then plug it into a power outlet.
- The LED indicator on your Apple Pencil 2 will show you the charging progress. It will turn white when charging starts and green when fully charged. The charging time may vary depending on the power source, but it typically takes less than 20 minutes to reach 80% charge and less than 100 minutes to fully charge.
- Replace the cap once the charging is complete.
Charging Alternatives
If you’re on the go, or just want to simplify your charging experience, there are alternatives to the standard charging method.
Power Banks
Power banks are an easy way to charge your Apple Pencil 2 on the move. They’re portable, lightweight, and can give your device a new lease of life. Simply connect your Apple Pencil 2 to the power bank via the USB-C cable and you’re good to go. Just make sure you charge it fully before leaving home.
Wireless Charging Pads
Wireless charging pads are incredibly convenient for those that already use them to charge their smartphones. They work by using electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between two objects, so all you need to do is place your Apple Pencil 2 on the charging pad and let it do its thing. Just make sure your wireless charging pad is compatible with your Apple Pencil 2 before purchasing one.
MacBook Pro Charging
If you own a MacBook Pro, you can use its USB-C port to charge your Apple Pencil 2. Simply connect the USB-C cable to your MacBook Pro and connect your Apple Pencil 2 to the other end. It’s important to note that this method may take longer than the standard charging method, but it’s still a convenient option for those that don’t have access to a power outlet.
AirPods Charging Case
Believe it or not, you can also charge your Apple Pencil 2 using your AirPods charging case. Simply place your Apple Pencil 2 in the charging case and connect it to a power source using the Lightning cable provided with your AirPods.
Common Charging Issues
While charging your Apple Pencil 2 may seem straightforward, there are common problems that users may encounter. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
Charging Failure
If your Apple Pencil 2 isn’t charging, make sure that you’re using the correct charging cable and adapter. You may also want to try charging it with a different power source. If none of these attempts work, check for any physical damage on your Apple Pencil 2 and contact Apple Support if necessary.
Slow Charging
If you find that your Apple Pencil 2 is charging slowly, there are a few things you can try to speed it up. Firstly, make sure you’re using the correct charger; that is, the 18-watt charger. Secondly, try leaving your Apple Pencil 2 charging overnight to maximize its battery life.
Keeping the Charger Clean
Over time, the charging port on your Apple Pencil 2 may become dirty or dusty. To ensure that it continues to charge effectively, clean it with a soft, damp cloth periodically. Do not use any harsh cleaning chemicals, as they may damage your device.
Power Saving Tips
Like all electronic devices, Apple Pencil 2’s battery life will inevitably decrease over time. However, practicing good power-saving habits can help to prolong its battery life. Here are some tips to try:
Turn Off Your iPad When Not in Use
When you’re not using your iPad with Apple Pencil 2, turn it off completely to preserve the battery life. This ensures that you’re not wasting any valuable minutes.
Disable Bluetooth When Not Using Apple Pencil 2
If you’re not using your Apple Pencil 2, you can disable Bluetooth to save power. Simply go to your iPad’s settings, select Bluetooth, and toggle the switch to “off.”
Reduce the Intensity of the Charging Animation
The charging animation on your iPad may look cool, but it does consume battery power. To reduce the intensity of the animation, go to your iPad’s settings, select General, and select Accessibility. From here, you can lower the intensity of any visual effects, including the charging animation.
Accessories
There are various accessories that can make charging your Apple Pencil 2 more convenient and accessible. One popular choice is the charging dock. These docks incorporate a charger for your Apple Pencil 2 and provide a handy, organized spot to keep your pen at all times. Some even include a charging spot for your iPad, so you can kill two birds with one stone.
Product Comparison
When comparing Apple Pencil 2 to its predecessor, there are noticeable differences when it comes to charging. Apple Pencil 1 charged via a lightning port, whereas Apple Pencil 2 charges via USB-C. Another major difference is that the second-generation Apple Pencil offers a double-tap feature, which allows users to switch between tools easily.
Troubleshooting Technical Problems
Some technical problems you may encounter while charging the Apple Pencil 2 include pencil not connecting with your iPad, loose cable connections, and malfunctioning charging port. For any such issues, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Pencil Not Connecting with Your iPad
If your Apple Pencil 2 isn’t connecting to your iPad, make sure your iPad is compatible with Apple Pencil 2. You may also want to try tapping your Apple Pencil 2 on the screen to see if that fixes the issue. If not, head to your iPad’s Bluetooth settings and check if your Apple Pencil 2 is connected. If it’s not, remove the pairing and try again.
Loose Cable Connections
If the cable connecting your Apple Pencil 2 to the charging adapter is loose, try disconnecting and reconnecting it to ensure a proper connection. If the issue persists, try using a different cable or adapter.
Malfunctioning Charging Port
If the charging port on your Apple Pencil 2 is malfunctioning, contact Apple Support for assistance. Do not attempt to fix it yourself, as this may cause further damage.
Conclusion
In summary, charging Apple Pencil 2 is essential to prolonging its battery life and ensuring you can use it for as long as possible. We’ve covered a step-by-step guide to charging your Apple Pencil 2, explored innovative charging alternatives, discussed common charging issues and their troubleshooting tips, offered power-saving suggestions, provided accessory recommendations, compared Apple Pencil 2 to its predecessor, and troubleshooted technical problems. By following these tips and tricks, you’re sure to keep your Apple Pencil 2 in great condition for years to come.
