Magic Keyboard for iPad Not Working? Here’s the Fix!

Looking for ways to fix a Magic Keyboard for an iPad that’s not working?

Apple now offers two iPad Pro keyboards. The first one is the Smart Keyboard, while Magic Keyboard is the latest option. Magic Keyboard features a scissor-switch mechanism and a glass trackpad that makes typing smoother. Plus, it’s backlit! 

But like its predecessor, Magic Keyboard isn’t without its flaws. Your Magic Keyboard might suddenly stop working due to hardware issues. Sometimes, though, the culprit is a random software glitch. Luckily, you can fix that with a few workarounds.

Two years ago, we published a guide on how to fix your Smart Keyboard. Today, we’ll focus on Magic Keyboard instead. This article will list multiple ways to help you enjoy your keyboard again. Here’s how to fix a Magic Keyboard for an iPad that’s not working.

Let’s dive in! 

1. Check Device Compatibility.

First things first, make sure you have the correct device for your iPad. The latest Magic Keyboard is compatible with the following iPad models:

• 5th, 4th, and 3rd generation of iPad Pro 12.9-inch
• 3rd, 2nd, and 1st generation of iPad Pro 11-inch
• 4th generation of iPad Air

Got the first generation of the Magic Keyboard? It’s functionally compatible with the new iPad Pro model. But because of the slightly thicker dimensions of the latest iPad Pro, your first-gen Magic Keyboard might not precisely fit when you close the case. 

If you have no problem with device compatibility, move on to the next potential fix.

2. Reconnect the iPad to Your Magic Keyboard.

It’s best to try a simple fix before moving to more complex ones. Make sure your keyboard has a stable connection to your iPad. Inspect the connector pins. Is there any visible dirt? If yes, wipe it off gently to ensure the iPad attaches magnetically. 

Also, check the panel where you usually attach the iPad. It’s filled with magnets underneath. Check for dust or other foreign materials that can interfere with the connection between the keyboard and iPad. Keep that area clean at all times. 

Once you’ve checked the connector pins and magnetic panel, try reconnecting the iPad to your Magic Keyboard. See if it’s working again without a glitch. 

3. Update iPadOS to Fix Magic Keyboard That’s Not Working. 

iPadOS updates often come with a set of fixes for common software bugs. It could help resolve minor glitches that have been affecting your keyboard’s connection to your iPad. It’s easy to update your iPadOS. Follow the step-by-step instructions below.

Here’s how to update iPadOS:

1. First, head over to the Settings menu.
2. Select General. 
3. Then, tap Software Update.

4. If there are available updates, a pop-up will show up. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the software update process.

4. Re-Enable Wi-Fi Connection.

Some iPad Pro users reported their Magic Keyboard only stopped working when they had a faulty or poor Wi-Fi connection. So, check your Wi-Fi connection before trying other complex solutions. You can also turn it off and on to re-establish the connection.

Here’s how to do it:

1. First, swipe up on your iPad screen. That’ll bring up the Control Center.

2. Then, tap the Wi-Fi icon to disable it.
3. After a few seconds, tap the Wi-Fi icon again to activate it.

See if your Wi-Fi connection has improved. Then, test if your keyboard is working. If not, we have a few more troubleshooting tricks up our sleeves.

5. Restart Your iPad to Resolve Magic Keyboard Issues.

Restarting your iPad can delete garbage memory, random bugs, and any problematic codes that are likely culprits behind Magic Keyboard issues. Once it’s back on, there’s a good chance that it runs without a hitch again. It can then recognize your keyboard.

Here’s how to reboot an iPad with a Home button:

1. Begin by holding the Home and Side buttons. Keep holding until the Power Slider appears on the screen.
2. Next, drag the Power Slider to the right. That’ll turn off the device.

3. After a few seconds, press the Home button. Hold it until the Apple logo shows up.

Here’s how to restart your iPad if it doesn’t have a Home button:

1. First, press any of the Volume buttons and the Power button simultaneously. Continue holding it until you see the Power Slider on the screen.

2. Drag the Power slider. Your iPad will shut down.
3. Turn the device back on by pressing and holding the Power button until you notice the Apple logo on the screen.

6. Turn iMessage Off and On.

Some users found that their Magic Keyboard only misbehaves when they’re using iMessage. Does the same thing happen to you? If yes, try turning the iMessage off and on. Resetting this feature can help your iPad recognize your Magic Keyboard again.

Here’s how to perform this troubleshooting method:

1. Open Settings on your iPad.
2. Select Messages.
3. Then toggle off the button beside iMessage.

4. Wait a few minutes before toggling the iMessage button back on.

After that, connect your iPad to your Magic Keyboard again. See if it’s now working.

7. Reset All Settings to Fix Magic Keyboard for iPad That’s Not Working.

If you can’t still get your Magic Keyboard to work, reset all the tablet’s settings. It’s the solution if some bug or misconfigured settings have been the culprit behind the issue. 

Here’s how to reset the settings on your iPad:

1. First, head over to the Settings app.
2. Choose General.
3. Then, scroll down a bit to find and tap Reset.
4. Select Reset All Settings.

5. Restart your iPad.

Once your iPad is back on, test if the Magic Keyboard is working again. Are you still having issues? We’ve got a few more potential solutions for you. Keep on reading.

8. Remove Other Keyboards.

Have you used other external keyboards with your iPad before? That could probably be the one causing the issue. Make sure to delete or uninstall other keyboards on your iPad. That way, it doesn’t interfere as your iPad connects to your Magic Keyboard.

Here’s how to delete other keyboards in your iPad:

1. First, go to the Settings menu.
2. Select General.
3. Choose Keyboard. Then, tap Keyboards.

4. Hit Edit. Now, find other external keyboards you used for your iPad.
5. Tap the minus sign to delete all extra smart keyboards.

Now, test if the Magic Keyboard issue is resolved.

9. Use Third-Party Tools to Fix Magic Keyboard Issues.

None of the above solutions worked? It’s time to turn to third-party tools. One recommended tool is FoneDog’s Toolkit-System Recovery. It fixes many Apple device system issues, like blue screens, crashing apps, and even iPad-related bugs.

You can also try Tenorshare ReiBoot. It quickly and easily repairs iPadOS systems. If the cause behind your Magic Keyboard issue is OS-related, then ReiBoot can help you.

The only drawback when using third-party tools is that most of them aren’t free. Some offer free trials. But that can limit your options when trying to fix a Magic Keyboard for an iPad that’s not working. So before you subscribe to any tool, make a price comparison. Explore review sites and message boards to find the most suitable one for you.

10. Reach Out to Apple.

If your Magic Keyboard for iPad is still not working at this point, reach out to Apple. There could be hardware issues that they only can resolve. But before you go to the nearest Genius Bar, it’s best to call or chat Apple Support to set an appointment. 

This wraps up this article. We hope we’ve helped fix your Magic Keyboard issue. For more iPad-related problems, don’t hesitate to leave a comment. We’re happy to offer you more quick how-to guides and troubleshooting tips.