7 Fixes for iPad Keyboard Not Working [Software/Hardware]

An iPad keyboard not working issue is more than just an annoying issue, as it disrupts your workflow and communication. Whether it is an on-screen keyboard, a Bluetooth keyboard, or a Smart keyboard, the issue might stem from various hardware and software glitches. Thankfully, several effective ways are available to fix iPad Smart/Magic/Bluetooth keyboard not working! Keep reading to get your iPad keyboard back to smooth, without needing professional repair right away.

Fix iPad Keyboard Not Working Because of Hardware Issue

If your iPad keyboard is not responding to touch, the issue could be hardware-related, and you can inspect it at home first before seeking professional repair. Hardware issues can be physical damage, loose connections, or dust piled up that prevents the iPad and its keyboard from communicating.

See below some of the effective hardware-based solutions that can help you eliminate the unresponsive keyboard on iPad.

Solution 1. Check the Connection Port

One of the most common culprits of the iPad keyboard stops working is a dirty connection port. Over time, dust and debris can be collected inside the port, so proper contact between your iOS device and the keyboard can be stopped. Please clean the port gently to make your iPad keyboard work again.

1. Disconnect your iPad keyboard, and check the port for any visible dust.
2. Please use a soft brush to clean the area carefully. After a while, reconnect your keyboard securely and test if the device detects it.

Solution 2. Inspect the Keyboard Damage

If cleaning the port does not fix the iPad Magic keyboard when everything works expect the trackpad issue, the keyboard itself might be the problem. Physical damage like broken circuits, bent pins, or water exposure can stop the data transmission. Take a few moments to check for any visible damage on your keyboard.

1. Check your keyboard for any damage, like cracks, bent pins, or worn-out connections. Then, try connecting it to another compatible iPad.
2. If the other iPad also fails, the keyboard may need repair. Contact Apple Support if you suspect hardware damage.

Solution 3. Try a Different Keyboard/Adapter

Suppose your keyboard and iPad's connection port look just fine, then the reason why your iPad keyboard is not working might be related to compatibility. Some third-party keyboards won't work smoothly with all iPad models. Try an alternative keyboard, such as Apple's official Smart Keyboard, to get out of connection issues.

1. Try connecting a different keyboard and check if your iPad responds.
2. For the wireless keyboard, unpair and re-pair the connection, and restart your iPad after reconnecting it.

4 Easy Ways to Fix Software Issues on iPad Keyboard Not Working

Suppose your iPad onscreen or external keyboard not working issue continues because it could be a software glitch. Minor bugs, outdated versions, or incorrect settings can often cause the keyboard not to respond. Thankfully, several software-based fixes can get it back to normal without much effort.

Solution 1. 4Easysoft iOS System Recovery

If the iPad keyboard not working issue is caused by software problems, it may come from deeper system errors that regular troubleshooting cannot fix. This is where a tool like 4Easysoft iOS System Recovery is needed. It is a professional yet friendly tool made to repair various iOS and iPadOS system issues, like frozen screens, unresponsive keyboards, app crashes, and more. It covers all iPad models and iPadOS versions, giving you both a Standard Mode for common issues and an Advanced Mode for more complex system errors.

Step 1Begin by launching 4Easysoft iOS System Recovery on your computer. Once the program is open, link your iPad via a USB cable. When prompted, tap "Trust" to allow access. And on the home screen of the tool, click "iOS System Recovery", and then click "Start".

Step 2After your device has been detected, its details will appear on the screen. From here, try the "Free Quick Fix" for minor issues or choose "Fix" to perform a deeper system repair.

You'll then be asked to pick between two modes: Standard Mode (repair issues without data loss) or Advanced Mode (fixes severe issues but will lose data). Click "Confirm" to move forward.

Step 3Next, check that your iPad's details are correctly displayed. You'll then see the available firmware versions for your iPad; choose the right one and click "Download". Click the "Next" button to begin the repair process.

Solution 2. Restart Your iPad

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix iPad Magic keyboard not working and other temporary software glitches. Doing so refreshes the system, clears cache errors, and reloads background processes. By the way, you can fix iPad touch screen not working by rebooting too.

1. Press and hold the "Power" + "Volume Down" buttons until the slider appears. Slide to power off.
2. Wait for about 30 seconds before pressing the "Power" button again to power up your iPad.

Solution 3. Update iPadOS Version

An outdated system can result in software incompatibilities, including some keys on iPad keyboard not working issues. Therefore, update your iPadOS to ensure bugs are gone and your keyboard runs optimally with the newest features.

1. Run the "Settings" app, then head to "General" and tap on "Software Update".
2. If an update is available, tap the "Update Now" button.
3. Complete all on-screen prompts and wait for your iPad to be updated.

Solution 4. Reset the iPad Keyboard

Does your keyboard usually freeze or lag? If so, resetting the keyboard dictionary can help you get out of the iPad keyboard not working. Over time, those saved words, shortcuts, and text errors can interfere with how a regular keyboard operates.

1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPad.
2. Tap on "General" and select "Transfer or Reset iPad".
3. There, select "Reset", then pick "Reset Keyboard Dictionary", and enter your passcode if prompted, and confirm the action.

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