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Fix Apple Pencil Markup Not Working on iPad Pro (2021)
Question details
Users are unable to use the Apple Pencil or touch input to markup documents on their iPad Pro 2021.
- Product
- Document and PDF Reader Apps
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to draw, highlight, or annotate documents using an Apple Pencil or finger touch.
- Observed behavior
- The application fails to register strokes, and the markup or drawing tools remain completely unresponsive to all input methods.
Make sure your Apple Pencil is fully charged, securely paired via Bluetooth in your iPad settings, and that the pencil tip is screwed on tightly.
Verify Apple Pencil Pairing and Settings
Ensure that your iPad properly recognizes your Apple Pencil and that OS-level drawing settings are configured correctly.
Sometimes the iPad Pro disconnects from the Apple Pencil or encounters a minor Bluetooth glitch that prevents the markup tools from activating in third-party apps.
Go to your iPad's Settings > Bluetooth and ensure the Apple Pencil is listed as 'Connected'.
If it is not responding, attach the Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad Pro 2021 to re-pair it.
Go to Settings > Apple Pencil and try toggling 'Only Draw with Apple Pencil' on or off to see if the app begins registering your input.
Check App-Specific Markup Tools and Updates
Many document apps require specific tools to be selected before drawing, and outdated apps may have compatibility issues with iPadOS updates.
Use WPS Office for Seamless Apple Pencil Markup on iPad
If your current PDF or document app is unresponsive to Apple Pencil inputs, switch to WPS Office. The WPS Office iOS app provides a robust, native PDF editor and document processor with flawless Apple Pencil support, allowing you to easily annotate, highlight, and handwrite notes without frustrating glitches.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Install WPS Office from the App Store on your iPad Pro.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch the app and open the PDF or document you want to markup.
- 3. Select the Annotation Tool: Tap the 'Tools' menu at the top, select the 'Annotation' or 'Pen' tab, and choose your preferred brush type and color.
- 4. Start Drawing: Use your Apple Pencil to write, highlight, or draw directly on the document screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Apple Pencil work in the iPad UI but not in my document app?
This usually happens if the app requires you to manually activate a 'Markup' or 'Draw' mode from its toolbar, or if the app itself has a bug requiring an update. Always check the app's specific settings for an 'Enable Apple Pencil' toggle.
Can I use my finger to markup if my Apple Pencil is dead?
Yes, but you may need to adjust your settings. Go to Settings > Apple Pencil on your iPad and turn off 'Only Draw with Apple Pencil'. Additionally, check if your specific document app has a 'Draw with Finger' toggle.
Does WPS Office support pressure sensitivity on the iPad Pro?
Yes, WPS Office fully utilizes the Apple Pencil's capabilities on the iPad Pro, providing a smooth and responsive markup experience for PDFs and Office documents.
