By Jenefey Aaron

Updated on 2025-03-28

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Fix iPad

How to Fix Double Tap Feature on Apple Pencil Not Working? [Fixed]

By Jenefey Aaron

2025-03-28 / iPad

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The Apple Pencil is a game-changer when it comes to precision and creativity on iPad devices. One of its most convenient features is the double tap, which allows users to quickly switch between tools like the eraser and brush in creative apps. But what happens when this double tap feature stops working? It can be frustrating, especially for those who rely heavily on it for seamless transitions while working on intricate designs or note-taking.

In this guide, we'll explore why Apple Pens double tap not working Goodnotes and provide you with five proven fixes. Whether it's a simple charge issue or something more complex like software glitches, this article will walk you through every possible solution to get your Apple Pencil back in action.

Part 1: Why isn't Apple Pencil Working with Double Tap Feature?

Part 2: How to Enable Apple Pencil Double Tap Feature?

Method 1: Charge the Apple Pencil
Method 2: Restart Your iPad
Method 3: Stable Bluetooth Tethering
Method 4: Reset Network Settings of iPad
Method 5: [Recommended] Fix Apple Pencil Double Tap Feature Not Working

Part 1: Why isn't Apple Pencil Working with Double Tap Feature?

Several factors can cause the Apple Pencil double tap not working Notability:

Low battery level on your Apple Pencil
Incorrect settings configuration
Bluetooth connectivity issues
Software glitches on your iPad
Incompatibility with certain apps

Part 2: How to Enable Apple Pencil Double Tap Feature?

Before diving into the fixes, it’s crucial to ensure that the double tap feature is actually enabled on your Apple Pencil. Here’s how you can check and enable it if Apple Pencil double tap settings missing:

Go to Settings on your iPad.
Scroll down and select Apple Pencil.
You’ll see the option for Double Tap. By default, it is turned off.
Test the double tap by switching between tools in an app that supports it, like Procreate or Notes.

apple pens double tap not working goodnotes

If the feature is enabled and you are wondering how to turn off double tapping on iPhone, you just need to select the “off” option.

Part 3: How to Fix Apple Pencil Double Tap Not Working?

Method 1: Charge the Apple Pencil

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a drained battery. If your Apple Pencil’s battery is low or completely depleted, it might not function as expected, including the double tap feature. Make sure your Pencil is sufficiently charged before troubleshooting further.

For 2nd Gen Apple Pencil: Attach your Apple Pencil magnetically to the side of your iPad. You’ll see a charging indicator on the screen. Wait for at least 15–30 minutes for the battery to recharge.
For 1st Gen Apple Pencil: Plug the Apple Pencil directly into your iPad's Lightning port or use the adapter included in the box to charge with a USB cable. Again, give it time to charge.
Check battery status: You can check the Pencil's battery status by swiping down on your iPad’s home screen and checking the “Batteries” widget.

Once charged, test the double tap feature again.

Method 2: Restart Your iPad

A quick restart can often resolve minor software glitches that may be affecting the functionality of the Apple Pencil. Restarting your iPad will refresh the connection between your iPad and Pencil.

Press and hold either the Top or Volume button until the Power Off slider appears.
Drag the slider to turn off your iPad.
Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Top button again until the Apple logo appears.
After restarting, reattach your Apple Pencil and test the double tap function again.

Method 3: Stable Bluetooth Tethering

The Apple Pencil relies on Bluetooth to function correctly. If the Bluetooth connection is unstable, the double tap feature may not work. Ensuring a stable connection can resolve the issue of allow double tap only with hover.

Go to Settings and select Bluetooth.
Ensure Bluetooth is turned on and that your Apple Pencil appears in the list of connected devices.
If you see your Pencil listed but still not working, tap the i icon next to it and choose Forget This Device.
Reconnect your Pencil by attaching it to your iPad. You should see a prompt to reconnect it.
Once paired again, test the double tap feature.

Method 4: Reset Network Settings of iPad

If none of the above fixes work, resetting your iPad’s network settings can refresh all network-related connections, including Bluetooth, which may be causing the Apple Pencil’s double tap to malfunction.

Go to Settings, then General.
Scroll down to Reset and tap on Reset Network Settings.

Enter your passcode if prompted and confirm the reset.
After the reset is complete, reconnect your Apple Pencil to your iPad via Bluetooth.
Test the double tap feature to see if the issue is resolved.

Method 5: [Recommended] Fix Apple Pencil Double Tap Feature Not Working

If your Apple Pencil's double tap feature still isn’t working, it could be due to deeper system issues on your iPad. In such cases, using an iOS system repair tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot can help fix software problems without causing data loss.

Tenorshare ReiBoot is the No. 1 iOS system repair and recovery software, which supports iOS 18 and older versions. It offers an easy, safe, and efficient way to troubleshoot over 150+ iOS/iPadOS system issues, including problems related to the Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil flashing at top of screen.

The following are the features of Tenorshare ReiBoot:

Supports iOS 18 upgrade/downgrade without jailbreak or iTunes.
Free enter and exit recovery mode on iPad/iPhone with one click.
Repair 150+ system issues without data loss, such as stuck on Apple logo or black screen.
Reset iOS/iPadOS devices without Passcode or iTunes.
Fix common iOS errors, including iTunes errors like 4013 and 1110.

Here are the steps to fix Apple Pencil double tap feature not working:

Download and install Tenorshare ReiBoot on your Mac or PC. Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable.

Launch ReiBoot and select Standard Repair from the main interface.

Download the firmware package for your iPad when prompted.

Click Start Standard Repair to begin the repair process.

Check the Apple Pencil to see if the double tap feature is now working.

Conclusion

When the double tap feature on your Apple Pencil stops working, it can be a real productivity killer. However, there are a variety of fixes available, ranging from simple solutions like charging your Pencil to more advanced methods like resetting network settings or using Tenorshare ReiBoot. If all else fails, Tenorshare ReiBoot offers an effective solution to repair iOS system issues without data loss.

By following the steps outlined above, you’ll likely have your Apple Pencil’s double tap feature back up and running in no time. If you want a seamless and reliable fix for persistent iPad or iOS issues, we highly recommend using Tenorshare ReiBoot. It's a simple, safe, and efficient tool that can save you from hours of troubleshooting.

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