Yes, it is generally okay and not harmful to put your Apple Pencil on your iPad, particularly if your iPad model supports magnetic attachment and charging.
Understanding Apple Pencil and iPad Interaction
Modern Apple Pencil models (like the Apple Pencil 2nd generation) attach magnetically to the side of compatible iPad models. This magnetic connection serves a few important purposes:
- Pairing: It pairs the Apple Pencil with the iPad.
- Charging: It charges the Apple Pencil wirelessly.
- Storage: It provides a convenient place to store the Pencil when not in use.
Is it Harmful to Keep the Pencil Attached?
Based on information from January 24, 2019, keeping the Apple Pencil attached to the iPad is not harmful or damaging to either one. The design allows for this connection.
Battery Considerations
While the physical connection isn't damaging, there is a significant point regarding battery usage:
- Battery Drain: "However unless the iPad is connected to power, it will drain the iPad's battery as the pencil will continuously charge from it when its own charge decreases."
This means that if your iPad is running on its internal battery (not plugged into a power source), keeping the Apple Pencil attached will consume the iPad's battery charge to keep the Pencil topped up.
Practical Implications
Consider these scenarios when keeping your Apple Pencil attached:
| Scenario | Harmful to Devices? | Effect on iPad Battery (if unplugged)? |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Pencil attached while iPad is unplugged | No | Drains iPad battery |
| Apple Pencil attached while iPad is plugged in | No | Charges Pencil without draining iPad |
If your goal is to conserve your iPad's battery life when you are not near a power outlet, continuously keeping the Apple Pencil attached is not ideal because the iPad will prioritize charging the Pencil.
Recommendations
- If you are actively using your iPad and Apple Pencil, keeping it attached for quick access and intermittent charging is convenient and intended.
- If you are not using your iPad and it's running on battery, detach the Apple Pencil to prevent unnecessary drain on the iPad's charge.
- When your iPad is connected to a power source, keeping the Pencil attached is perfectly fine as the power adapter will supply the energy needed to charge both devices.
In summary, attaching your Apple Pencil to your iPad is safe for the hardware, but be mindful of the potential battery drain on the iPad if it's not connected to power.
