iPad Smart Keyboard not working? Here's how to fix it

A Smart Keyboard™ makes it easier to use your iPad® whether you're at your desk or on the go. But if it stops working properly or you see an “Accessory Not Supported" error message, don't panic. 

At Asurion, we don't just fix your devices, we fix the frustration you feel when your tech doesn't work—from solving issues with your Face ID® to repairing a broken iPhone® speaker. Here are some easy-to-follow tips for fixing an iPad Smart Keyboard that's not working. 

Make sure you're using a compatible iPad model 

An Apple® Smart Keyboard works with these iPad models: 

• iPad (7th, 8th, and 9th generation) 
• iPad Air® (3rd generation) 
• iPad Pro® 9.7 inch, 10.5-inch, and 12.9 inch (1st and 2nd generation) 

A Smart Keyboard Folio™ works with these iPad models: 

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

Check for software updates 

To see if your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS®, tap Settings > General > Software Update. Download and install the update if one is available—then see if your Smart Keyboard works. 

Examine the keyboard connection port 

The Smart Keyboard attaches to your iPad using the Smart Connector, which consists of three small, magnetic contacts. If it isn't securely connected, your iPad's Smart Keyboard might not work properly. You can also try using a can of compressed air or a microfiber cloth to clear debris out of the Smart Connector. 

Disconnect and reconnect the keyboard 

Reconnecting your Smart Keyboard may do the trick. Disconnect the Smart Keyboard, turn your iPad off, then turn it back on. Reconnect the keyboard and see if it works. 

Restart your iPad 

You may need to force restart your iPad to get your Smart Keyboard working. Here's how: 

For iPads without a Home button: 

1. Press and release the Volume Up button, then press and release the Volume Down button. 
2. Press and hold the Top button until your iPad restarts. 

For iPads with a Home button: 

• Press and hold the Top and Home buttons at the same time until your iPad restarts. 

Restore your iPad to its factory settings 

This step will reset your iPad and erase your data, so make sure you back up your information before performing a factory reset. If you don't, you may lose important photos, videos, and messages, among other things. 

1. Open Settings, then tap General. 
2. Scroll down and tap Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. 
3. Select Backup then Erase to back up your iPad to iCloud®, or tap Erase Now to erase and reset it. 

Once the reset is complete, you can set up your iPad as new or choose to restore your previous settings and data.