iPad Pro Smart Keyboard Says “This Accessory Is Not Supported By This Device”

Your iPad Smart Keyboard (or Smart Keyboard Folio) is not working? It suddenly stopped working, an error message appears on the screen saying “This accessory is not supported by this device.”

In this article, we are explaining why you’re seeing this alert message and further what you can do to fix the problem. Do not worry you are not alone. Many iPad Pro users are reporting this problem. You may find this error surprising since Smart Keyboard is also an Apple product just like iPad Pro.

Why is your iPad Pro showing this keyboard error message?

There can be various reasons why your iPad keyboard is not responding:

1. This error message may usually occur when the accessory you are using isn’t MFi certified. However, this is not true for this problem.  Your Lightning Cable may produce a similar error if it is not MFI certified. If you are using a third-party accessory, you may experience this.
2. Your iPad Pro iOS software is somehow malfunctioning.
3. It is highly likely that your iPad Pro is unable to detect your Smart Smart Keyboard Folio or Smart Keyboard.
4. Your keyboard may be damaged.

See: AirPods no sound?

Fix iPad Pro Keyboard Problem

Steps below will help you resolve this:

• Please ensure that your iPad Pro has the latest version of the iOS software. You can check this easily by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Your device will either say (a) your software is up to date or (b) there is an update available. If there is an update available, follow the onscreen instructions to download and install the update.
• Do these in this order:
  • Remove your keyboard.
  • Restart your iPad Pro. You can turn off your iPad Pro by going to Settings > General> Shut Down. Then turn on your device. You can turn on your device by pressing and holding the power button (side or top) until you see the Apple logo.
  • Reconnect your keyboard.
• Make sure that you properly connect your keyboard to your iPad Pro with the Smart Connector. Make sure that nothing is covering (dirt, debris, lint, plastic, paper, etc) connection pins. Check your connections.  These things can prevent your iPad Pro from making a connection to your keyboard. Try gently cleaning the Smart Connector pins and contacts. You can try blowing air directly into your connectors to remove debris.
• Reset your iPad Pro. This is also called a force restart. Do not worry, you will not lose any content. You need to follow different steps. Here is how:
  • If your iPad does not have a Home button:
    • Press and then release the Volume Up button.
    • Now press and release the Volume Down button.
    • Press and hold the Power button until your iPad restarts.
  • If your iPad has a Home button:
    • Press and hold the Home and the Top buttons together until the Apple logo appears. Then release the buttons.

If nothing above helps you, you may want to contact Apple or make a Genius Bar appointment. If you re soo disappointed, you can also send feedback to Apple. You should definitely contact Apple if your device is still under warranty. However, Apple has other warranty programs (e.g., Quality Program, Repair Program, etc), even if your device is out of warranty. Regarding keyboards, Apple is servicing the iPad Pro Smart Keyboard for up to three years.  You may check your warranty status.

See also: iPad not charging?